Petrol with E20 formula improves vehicle acceleration and ride smoothness, sparking debate as criticism intensifies
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has announced the introduction of 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20) in India, marking a significant step towards the country's commitment to meeting its climate goals and achieving net zero emissions by 2070.
The move to E20 petrol is expected to offer several benefits, including improved acceleration, better ride quality, and a significant reduction in carbon emissions. However, mileage may be slightly impacted due to ethanol's lower energy density compared to petrol.
According to a study by NITI Aayog, the use of sugarcane and maize-based ethanol in E20 petrol results in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that are 65% and 50% less, respectively, than those of petrol. This reduction in carbon emissions is significant and supports the government's goals for pollution reduction and energy security.
In terms of acceleration, E20 fuel provides better acceleration than E10 due to its higher Research Octane Number (RON 95 for E20 vs. RON 91 for regular petrol and E10), improving anti-knocking properties and engine performance. Regarding ride quality, E20 is said to offer better ride quality compared to E10, though detailed technical parameters are not specified. This improvement may be linked to smoother engine operation enabled by the higher octane rating.
While mileage may be slightly reduced with E20, the impact is expected to be minimal. Many vehicles manufactured since 2009 or 2023 (depending on make and model) are compatible with E20, minimizing concerns about mileage loss or engine damage. Older vehicles designed exclusively for E10 may face potential long-term engine wear if run on E20, although short-term catastrophic damage is not confirmed.
The Centre has highlighted that the rural economy has seen transformative benefits because of the move to E20, with increasing farmers' incomes helping to curb farmer suicides. In this year alone, it is expected that payment to the farmers will be to the tune of Rs 40,000 crore, and forex savings will be around Rs 43,000 crores. The move to E20 has also led to savings/conservation of more than Rs 1,44,087 crore of foreign exchange, crude oil substitution of about 245 lakh metric tonnes, and CO2 emission reduction of approximately 736 lakh metric tonnes.
It is important to note that the concerns about a significant hit on mileage because of E20 had been anticipated as far back as 2020. The ministry assured that there will be no rapid switch to fuels with higher levels of ethanol without proper consultation. Certain older vehicles may require replacement of some rubber parts and gaskets due to ethanol-blended petrol, but this is inexpensive and manageable during routine servicing.
The Centre cites Brazil as a successful example of using E27 fuel for several years without issues. Companies like Hyundai, Toyota, and Honda sell vehicles in Brazil that use E27 fuel. Insurance claims will not be impacted by the switch to E20. Oil companies have not stopped the ethanol blending mandate despite the increase in ethanol price because it delivers on energy security, boosts farmers' incomes, and promotes environmental sustainability.
The current roadmap commits the government to E-20 up to 31.10.2026. Decisions for beyond this date will be made after extensive consultation. The weighted average price of ethanol is now higher than the cost of refined petrol, but the government maintains that the benefits of E20 outweigh the costs. Mileage is influenced by several factors, including driving habits, maintenance, tyre pressure, and "air conditioning load".
In conclusion, the introduction of E20 petrol offers several benefits, including improved acceleration, better ride quality, and a significant reduction in carbon emissions. Vehicle compatibility and maintenance practices are key to optimizing these benefits. The Centre has assured that there will be no rapid switch to fuels with higher levels of ethanol without proper consultation, and concerns about mileage loss or engine damage are minimal for most vehicles. The move to E20 petrol is part of India's commitment to meeting its climate goals and achieving net zero emissions by 2070.
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