Oil Industry Reassures: Ethanol-Blended Petrol Safe for Vehicles

Representatives from the oil industry have stated that ethanol-blended petrol is safe for use in vehicles and does not cause damage, countering any public concerns. At a press conference, R. Kesavan, former Deputy General Manager of IndianOil, M. Arun, an IndianOil dealer, and N.S. Krishnamoorthi, an entrepreneur, provided clarification on the fuel's safety.

They emphasised that ethanol blending benefits farmers by acting as a natural insect repellent, while posing no risk to engine performance or longevity. The representatives also noted that several countries, including the United States, Brazil, Canada, and Thailand, have successfully adopted ethanol-blended petrol. They clarified that sugarcane juice is not directly mixed with petrol; rather, ethanol derived from sugarcane or other sources is blended with petrol in specific proportions.

Ethanol blending is part of India's National Policy on Biofuels, aimed at reducing dependence on fossil fuels, cutting emissions, and supporting the agricultural sector. The current blending target is 20% ethanol in petrol by 2025. Oil marketing companies have been gradually increasing the ethanol percentage in petrol across the country.

The representatives' statement comes amid occasional debates about the impact of ethanol on vehicle engines and fuel efficiency. However, they asserted that modern vehicles are designed to handle ethanol blends up to 10% (E10) and even higher, as per international standards. They urged the public to rely on official information and not on unverified claims.