The debate over E20 petrol continues, with the Petroleum Dealers Association (PDA) in Odisha urging the government to reconsider the rollout of the higher ethanol-blended fuel. The request comes shortly after several automakers and industry representatives stated that E20-compatible vehicles have undergone extensive testing and are suitable for use with the fuel.
According to Petroleum Dealers Association President Sasanka Sekhar Sahu, fuel station operators are facing complaints from customers who believe E20 petrol is responsible for vehicle-related issues. He said dealers have no role in deciding fuel policy but are often the first point of contact when motorists experience problems.
Sahu claimed that many vehicles currently on Indian roads were originally designed for lower ethanol blends and suggested that this has led to concerns among some owners. He also alleged that customers have reported issues such as clogged carburettors and other mechanical problems after using E20 petrol, resulting in disputes at fuel stations.
The association has requested that the government review the current implementation of E20 fuel, stating that dealers are facing operational challenges because of customer dissatisfaction.
The comments differ from recent statements made by automotive manufacturers and industry experts during a government briefing. Representatives from companies including Maruti Suzuki and Toyota Kirloskar Motor said their testing did not identify concerns related to durability, corrosion or component wear in E10-compatible vehicles running on E20 petrol. They also stated that the ethanol blending programme has been introduced following technical evaluations and regulatory approvals.
The differing views reflect the ongoing discussion surrounding E20 petrol in India. While manufacturers and industry experts maintain that E20 fuel is suitable for compatible vehicles, some dealer associations continue to report customer concerns and are seeking a review of the rollout.
