India’s recent rollout of E20 petrol—a fuel blend containing 20% ethanol—has sparked widespread protests and backlash from drivers across the country. The government introduced E20 as part of its ambitious plan to reduce fossil fuel dependency and curb pollution by promoting cleaner, renewable fuel alternatives.
However, many vehicle owners, especially of older and small-engine models, have reported performance issues, increased engine knocking, and concerns over fuel efficiency after switching to E20 petrol. These problems have led to vocal demands for more comprehensive testing, clearer communication, and reconsideration of the rollout timeline.
Industry experts note that while E20 petrol aligns with global environmental goals, the transition requires robust infrastructure upgrades, consumer education, and vehicle compatibility assessments to avoid backlash and ensure smooth adoption.
The government has assured that corrective measures and support will be provided to affected users, aiming to balance environmental benefits with practical challenges.