'E20 is fuel for future', says oil experts while bursting pervasive myths

Prominent energy industry veterans are actively addressing public confusion and consumer fears surrounding India's expanding E20 (20% ethanol-blended) petrol mandate. Concerns about decreased fuel economy and potential engine damage have been circulating, prompting experts to clarify the facts.

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These are unique cases which may require fixes of a different type.

R Ramachandran, retired Director (Refineries) of BPCL, and Raj Kumar Dubey, retired Chairman of IGL and Director of BPCL, presented empirical data to counter subjective experiences. Ramachandran stated that institutional testing shows only a marginal impact on mileage, attributing widespread driver complaints of a 10% drop to factors like older vehicles, wear and tear, or aggressive driving.

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Suddenly, you know, if you raise this question that, 'No, the mileage is dramatically dropping'--now, those things, you know, are not subject to reason.

Dubey added that many motorists have been using blended fuel for over a year without issue, suggesting that claims of dramatic mileage drops are often unreasonable. He urged consumers to trust official testing agencies over individual opinions. Regarding mechanical concerns for older vehicles, accelerated testing indicates only minor long-term adjustments, primarily affecting rubber parts, which would require replacement slightly sooner than usual.

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In very old vehicles, there will be some issues on the rubber parts.

Experts also dismissed rumors about insurance validity, confirming policies remain unaffected. They refuted claims that ethanol production wastes significant water, noting that modern distilleries often employ 100% water recycling. The veterans highlighted the substantial macroeconomic advantages, projecting Rs 1.8-1.9 lakh crore in foreign exchange savings. Dubey stressed that E20 reduces dependence on volatile global crude prices, keeping capital within the domestic economy and benefiting the local sugar industry.

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Normally, suppose you want to change the rubber parts within 10 years; here, you need to look into changing the rubber parts maybe in eight years. It's a very small price to pay for such a big initiative.