
E100 Fuel Receives Government Approval for Flex-Fuel Vehicles
What Happened?
The Indian government has approved E100 fuel, allowing vehicles to run on nearly 100% ethanol. This move aims to promote flex-fuel vehicles and reduce reliance on imported oil.
Key points
- The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways amended the Central Motor Vehicles Rules to include E100 fuel.
- E100 can only be used in vehicles specifically designed and certified for it.
- Existing petrol cars cannot run on E100 unless they are modified for it.
- The amendment raises the gross vehicle weight limit from 3,000 kg to 3,500 kg.
- Maruti Suzuki launched India's first flex-fuel passenger vehicle, the Wagon R Flex Fuel, in June 2026.
Key insights
- The introduction of E100 could enhance the market for flex-fuel vehicles in India.
- This policy may reduce India's dependence on imported crude oil, impacting the current account deficit.
- Automakers may accelerate the development of vehicles compatible with higher ethanol blends.
Why it matters
This approval could lead to a significant shift towards sustainable fuel options in India.
Source
India Today
