Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, has accused powerful petrol lobbies of running a smear campaign against E20 fuel. According to Gadkari, the criticism surrounding the fuel blend is not related to technological issues, but is instead a calculated effort to discredit the initiative. He stated that a ‘paid campaign’ is underway to undermine the project.
E20 fuel is a mixture of petrol and ethanol, containing 80% petrol and 20% ethanol. The government sees it as a vital step toward achieving green energy goals. However, some social media users have voiced concerns that E20 could decrease vehicle mileage and potentially damage engines.
Gadkari, speaking at an Auto Retail Conclave organized by FADA, pointed out that lobbying is prevalent across industries and sectors. He specifically targeted the petrol lobby for spreading misinformation about E20 fuel. He insisted that the technology would lead India towards energy independence and assist in lowering pollution levels.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has already countered claims that E20 fuel would negatively impact mileage, stating that returning to E-0 would negate India’s progress in pollution control and energy transition.
Gadkari also highlighted the country’s focus on alternative fuels and technologies. He mentioned ongoing research by Indian startups on sodium ion, lithium ion, zinc ion, and aluminum ion batteries. Furthermore, the scrapping of older vehicles offers an opportunity to recover rare earth and other valuable metals.
He cited the past dependence on China for semiconductor chips as a hurdle for the automobile industry. However, with chip manufacturing now commencing in India, Gadkari anticipates similar self-reliance in the fuel and battery sectors.
Gadkari also indicated that petrol and diesel vehicles will continue to be in demand. With an annual growth of 15-20% in automobile production and a robust international market, conventional vehicles will remain relevant. However, alternative fuels and technologies are expected to gain prominence over time.
Gadkari revealed that when he took over the ministry, the Indian automobile industry was valued at ₹14 lakh crore, which has since increased to ₹22 lakh crore. The United States and China lead the world with ₹78 lakh crore and ₹47 lakh crore respectively, with India holding the third position.