E20 can reduce fuel economy by 2%-6%, says Nitin Gadkari, Pg15

Key Highlights:

• Union Minister Nitin Gadkari informed Parliament that E20 fuel can reduce vehicle fuel economy by 2% to 6%, depending on the vehicle category and vintage.
• This finding is based on a study commissioned by the Centre.
• The study, however, found no engine failures due to E20 and reported improved acceleration and ride quality.
• E20 fuel also demonstrated approximately 30% lower carbon emissions compared to E10 fuel.

Detailed Insights:

• The study evaluating the effect of E20 was conducted on BS-III, BS-IV, and BS-VI E10 two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
• It was a collaborative effort by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), and Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. (IOCL).
• The Minister emphasized that higher ethanol blends contribute to cleaner and more complete combustion.
• The Ethanol Blending Programme aims to reduce India's crude oil import dependence and lower vehicular pollution.

Key Concepts Involved:

• E20 Fuel: A blend of 20% ethanol and 80% gasoline, part of India's initiative to reduce fossil fuel dependence and promote biofuels.
• E10 Fuel: A blend of 10% ethanol and 90% gasoline, which is currently in use in India.
• Bharat Stage (BS) Emission Standards: Government-instituted emission standards to regulate air pollutants from motor vehicles in India.
• Ethanol Blending Programme: A government initiative to mix ethanol with petrol to enhance energy security, reduce imports, and lower emissions.