Automakers and Experts Reassure on E20 Fuel Safety Amid Viral Claims of Vehicle Damage

Amid growing concerns over the impact of petrol blended with 20% ethanol (E20) on vehicles, automobile manufacturers and industry experts held a press conference on Saturday to address the issue. They emphasised that the fuel has undergone thorough testing and is safe for use, countering recent viral social media posts alleging damage to high-end vehicles.

The press conference featured a panel of experts and representatives from major automakers, including Maruti Suzuki. They sought to allay fears sparked by a viral clip showing a Toyota vehicle reportedly damaged by E20 fuel. Toyota attributed the incident to fuel contamination rather than incompatibility with the blend. According to the company, the vehicle's fuel tank and lines were drained, cleaned, and refilled with standard E20 fuel. After inspection, the vehicle was found normal and returned to the customer.

The video, which garnered millions of views, highlighted multiple similar complaints, drawing attention from both the government and automakers. They are working to certify the authenticity and scientific basis of E20 fuel.

Rahul Bharti, Senior Executive Officer (Corporate Affairs) at Maruti Suzuki, stated that there have been no reported cases of wear and tear or corrosion in engines due to E20 fuel, even in vehicles not originally designed for it. 'We have sufficient factors of safety – in terms of wear and tear, corrosion, or damage to parts that come in contact with E20 fuels for cars sold in India before 2023,' said Bharti. He added that the company tested pre-2023 E10-compliant cars with E20 fuel and found no issues.

For context, petrol with a 20% ethanol blend was formally launched in February 2023. India achieved an average ethanol blending of 19.99% in December 2025. The blending program is backed by multiple trials, including those conducted by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI). However, the detailed report containing sample sizes and types is not yet publicly accessible. When questioned by The Hindu, executives said accessing the report may require a separate login and registration, but the report could not be found despite following prescribed procedures.

Regarding mileage, Bharti acknowledged that E20 has a lower calorific value than E10, resulting in a mileage drop of 'about 3 to 3.5%'. He also noted that out of the 2.84 crore cars serviced by Maruti Suzuki in fiscal year 2025-26, approximately 1.5 crore cars reported no issues related to corrosion, wear and tear, or component damage. Additionally, he stated that current vehicles are designed with safety parameters that allow them to run on fuel blends beyond E20, though he did not specify the extent.

The press conference aimed to reassure the public and dispel misinformation, reinforcing that E20 fuel is a scientifically tested and safe alternative as India pushes for greater ethanol blending in its fuel policy.