India Clears Rules for 100% Ethanol Fuel in Vehicles

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has changed the Central Motor Vehicles Rules to allow fuel containing up to 100% ethanol, known as E100, in motor vehicles. These changes update Rule 115 and Rule 115E, which cover emission standards and testing requirements. The update adds E100 and E85, which is fuel with up to 85% ethanol, into multiple tables under Rule 115. An added note states that E85 and E100 can only be used in flex-fuel vehicles built by original equipment manufacturers.

Official Guidance

In a press statement, the Ministry clarified that a vehicle's ability to use E10 or E20 does not mean it can handle E85. The new rule does not force owners of current vehicles to switch to E85 or change their vehicles. The Ministry advised motorists to check the fuel sticker on their vehicle and follow the owner's manual at filling stations. The changes will also help with homologation, which is the official certification process used by agencies like the Automotive Research Association of India to check that vehicles meet technical, safety, and environmental standards.

Context

India met its 20% ethanol blending target in 2025, which was five years ahead of the original 2030 deadline under the National Policy on Biofuels. Flex-fuel vehicles are designed to run on petrol, pure ethanol, or any blend of the two, offering an alternative to standard petrol engines as the country expands its biofuel program.