MPs question govt on non-E20 vehicle owners not informed about mileage loss
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · IR
Why in news
Members of the parliamentary committee on transport questioned government officials on why owners of non-E20 compliant vehicles were not warned about potential mileage loss from using 20% ethanol blended petrol. The issue has gained prominence amid controversy over E20 fuel's impact on mileage and engines of older vehicles.
Background
India has been promoting ethanol blending in petrol to reduce dependence on imported crude. E20 fuel (20% ethanol blend) is being introduced, but older vehicles not designed for E20 may experience mileage loss and engine issues. The government claims over 19% ethanol blended fuel has been sold for more than two years.
Key facts
Parliamentary committee on transport questioned why no effort was made to inform owners of non-E20 compliant vehicles about potential mileage loss from E20 fuel.
Committee members asked whether any economic analysis was done to assess gain to individual vehicle owners from E20 fuel.
Officials from road transport and petroleum ministries, vehicle testing agencies, and oil marketing companies were called for the meeting.
Some members questioned the sudden opposition to E20 when over 19% ethanol blended fuel has been sold for over two years.
Road transport ministry officials stated mileage loss from E20 is between 2% and 6%, contrary to hearsay claims of 25%.
Two issues that may have triggered the controversy: BIS notification for higher ethanol blends (E22, E25, E30) and sale of adulterated fuels.
Prelims pointers
- E20 fuel: 20% ethanol blended petrol
- BIS: Bureau of Indian Standards
- Ethanol blending program under National Policy on Biofuels
- Parliamentary committee on transport
Mains angles
- GS3: Energy - Ethanol blending policy, its benefits and challenges
- GS2: Government policies and interventions - transparency and consumer awareness
- GS3: Environment - impact of biofuels on emissions and fuel efficiency