Starting April 1, 2026, fuel stations across India will be required to sell E20 petrol as a standard fuel option, marking a major step in the country’s clean-energy transition strategy. The new rule mandates that petrol sold nationwide must contain up to 20% ethanol and meet a minimum Research Octane Number (RON) rating of 95. The decision was formalized through a notification issued on February 17 by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.

What the New Rule Means for Consumers

Under the revised regulation, fuel retailers in all states and union territories must comply with the updated fuel composition standard. Oil marketing companies will be responsible for ensuring that the E20 petrol supplied meets quality benchmarks defined by the Bureau of Indian Standards. However, authorities may grant temporary exemptions in select regions where logistical or supply constraints make immediate rollout difficult.

E20 fuel refers to petrol blended with up to 20% ethanol, a biofuel typically produced from crops such as sugarcane, maize, and other grains. The government has been actively promoting ethanol blending to cut dependence on imported crude oil, reduce carbon emissions, and improve domestic energy security. Officials believe the move will also help conserve foreign exchange reserves while supporting agricultural sectors that supply raw materials for ethanol production.

Why a Minimum 95 RON Requirement Matters

A key feature of the new mandate is the requirement that E20 petrol must have a minimum RON of 95. The RON rating measures a fuel’s resistance to engine knocking, a condition where fuel burns unevenly inside the engine cylinder. Knocking can produce noise, reduce efficiency, and cause long-term mechanical damage if it occurs frequently. Higher-octane fuel burns more smoothly and is generally safer for modern engines, especially those designed for higher compression ratios.

By enforcing a 95 RON standard, policymakers aim to ensure that ethanol blending does not compromise engine performance or durability. This specification is particularly important because ethanol has different combustion properties compared to pure petrol.

Impact on Vehicles: New vs Old Models

Automotive experts say most vehicles manufactured between 2023 and 2025 were engineered with E20 compatibility in mind, meaning they should operate normally on the new fuel without significant performance issues. However, older vehicles may experience minor drawbacks. Analysts estimate that fuel efficiency in such vehicles could decline by roughly 3% to 7% when running on E20 blends.

In some cases, legacy vehicles with older fuel systems may face wear in rubber or plastic components not originally designed for higher ethanol concentrations. While these effects are not universal, mechanics advise owners of older models to monitor performance and consult service professionals if unusual engine behavior occurs.

Strategic Goals Behind the Policy

The nationwide rollout of E20 petrol is part of a broader effort by the Indian government to transition toward cleaner fuels and reduce environmental impact. Ethanol blending lowers tailpipe emissions and helps diversify the country’s energy mix. By promoting domestically produced biofuels, authorities also aim to stabilize fuel prices and strengthen rural economies tied to ethanol feedstock production.

Energy analysts view the mandate as a significant milestone in India’s long-term plan to increase ethanol blending ratios and reduce fossil-fuel reliance. While short-term adjustments may be needed for some consumers and industries, policymakers argue that the environmental and economic benefits outweigh transitional challenges.

What Consumers Should Expect Next

Motorists are unlikely to notice immediate visible changes at fuel stations, as the shift primarily involves fuel composition rather than distribution infrastructure. Still, drivers may want to check their vehicle manuals to confirm compatibility with E20 fuel and stay informed about manufacturer recommendations.

With the April 1 deadline approaching, fuel suppliers and regulators are expected to finalize logistics to ensure a smooth transition. The policy signals a decisive push toward cleaner mobility and reflects India’s growing emphasis on sustainable energy solutions while maintaining engine safety standards.