Using fuel blended with 20% ethanol negatively affects the distance cars can travel in India.

On Sunday, a group representing car manufacturers in India said that using fuel blended with 20% ethanol reduces the distance a car can travel by between two and four percent.

However, it confirmed that “the fuel is safe to use,” attempting to reassure drivers in the world’s third-largest car market.

Fuel Blending with Ethanol

India set a target years ago to blend fuel with 20% ethanol by 2025, known as E20 fuel, as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s focus on clean energy.

But in recent weeks, this fuel has become the only option available at most fuel stations, sparking widespread debate among drivers about its impact on vehicle performance and durability, especially older models.

PK Banerjee, CEO of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, said at a press conference on Saturday evening in New Delhi: “Using E20 fuel in older vehicles may reduce the distance the car travels, but it does not pose a safety risk.

Banerjee explained: “Millions of vehicles have been using E20 fuel for a long time already. No cases of vehicle or engine failure have been reported,” adding, “Companies will honor warranty and insurance claims if problems occur.”

The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers represents major companies in the country such as Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai Motor, Mahindra & Mahindra, Tata Motors, and Toyota Motor.