BS-III vehicles may need some tweaks for E20 fuel, says Centre, Pg1

Key Highlights:

• The Union government stated that some rubber parts and gaskets in BS-III vehicles might need replacement when using E20 fuel.
• This information was provided to Parliament by Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari.
• The finding is based on a study conducted by several Indian institutions and industry bodies.
• The study indicated that vehicles other than BS-III do not require engine modifications for E20 fuel.

Detailed Insights:

• E20 fuel is a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol, part of India's Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme to reduce crude oil import dependence and promote biofuels.
• The required replacements for BS-III vehicles can be managed during routine servicing, according to the government.
• The study was a collaborative effort by Indian Oil Corporation Limited, the Indian Institute of Petroleum, Dehradun, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, and the Automotive Research Association of India.
• BS-III vehicles are older-generation vehicles manufactured before April 2017, adhering to 2005/2010 emission standards.
• The EBP Programme aims to achieve energy security, reduce emissions, and increase farmers' income by utilizing agricultural produce for ethanol production.
• Fuel efficiency is influenced by multiple factors beyond fuel type, including driving habits, maintenance, and tire pressure.

Key Concepts Involved:

• E20 Fuel: A blend of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol, aimed at reducing fossil fuel dependence and promoting cleaner energy.
• BS-III Vehicles: Vehicles compliant with Bharat Stage III emission standards, which were in effect across India from 2010 and banned for sale from April 2017.
• Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP): A government initiative to mix ethanol with petrol to reduce crude oil imports, lower vehicular emissions, and support farmers.