The central government has instructed oil marketing companies to sell E20 petrol nationwide. From April 1, all states and Union Territories must offer fuel blended with up to 20 percent ethanol.
However, the blend must meet a minimum Research Octane Number of 95. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas issued this directive on February 17.
The notification states that oil companies shall sell Ethanol Blended Motor Spirit. The blend can contain up to twenty percent ethanol. Additionally, it must follow Bureau of Indian Standards specifications and maintain minimum RON 95.
Why RON 95 Rule Matters
Research Octane Number measures fuel stability. It shows how much compression fuel can withstand before ignition. Higher values indicate better performance under pressure.
Knocking occurs when fuel burns unevenly inside engines. This condition can damage machinery over time. Therefore, higher octane fuel ensures stable combustion and smoother functioning.
Ethanol naturally carries an octane rating around 108. When blended with petrol, it improves knock resistance. Hence, the RON 95 requirement protects engines and supports efficient operation.
Ethanol Blending Targets and Savings
Ethanol is produced from sugarcane, maize, and other grains. It burns cleaner compared to petrol. Moreover, it increases demand for agricultural produce. The government states that this move supports farmer incomes.
India achieved 10 percent blending in June 2022 ahead of schedule. Later, authorities advanced the 20 percent target to 2025–26. Many fuel stations already supply E20 in several regions.
According to the oil ministry, ethanol blending has saved more than Rs 1.40 lakh crore in foreign exchange since 2014–15. Reduced crude oil imports generated these savings.
What It Means For Drivers
For travellers and motorists, E20 will become standard fuel across pumps. Vehicles manufactured between 2023 and 2025 onward are designed to run on E20.
However, older models may experience 3 to 7 percent lower fuel efficiency. This reduction can shorten driving range slightly between refuelling stops. Additionally, some older engines may face faster wear of rubber and plastic parts.
Even so, authorities expect the transition to remain manageable for most vehicles on Indian roads.
