Namaste India welcome to Dream Machine with a fresh new blog.🙏
Why is Everyone Suddenly Talking About Ethanol Petrol?
Remember when petrol was cheaper, and filling up your tank didn’t feel like a punch in the gut? Back in the day, wars in oil-producing countries made fuel prices shoot up overnight. Every time something big happened in the Gulf or Russia, we felt it at the pump—and it hurt! Veggies became expensive, everything that’s transported went up in price, and families felt the pinch.
So, to fight back, India started mixing a percentage of ethanol (made from crops like sugarcane) into petrol. It means we don’t have to rely so much on imported oil, and we use more homegrown fuel instead. Sounds smart, right?
How Did Ethanol Blending Begin?
Honestly, it’s not a “new” thing at all. Way back in 2003, the government started blending about 5% ethanol into our petrol. Over time, the target kept changing—now they want 20% by 2025 and maybe even 30% in a few years. It’s happening faster than ever.
So, What’s Good About Ethanol?
Saves India big money: Instead of sending ₹1.44 lakh crore abroad for petrol, we spend it locally.
Cleaner air: This fuel mix burns better, so there’s less smoke and smog.
Sometimes, better engine pep: If your car is designed for it (E20), ethanol’s higher octane can make your engine run smoother.
What’s NOT So Good? Let’s Get Real.
Price didn’t drop: We all hoped petrol would get cheaper. But sugarcane prices went up, so the benefit is small or even nonexistent.
Mileage may dip: If your car isn’t built for E20, expect to lose around 3–6% fuel efficiency, maybe more if you’re a fast driver.
Engine worries: Most modern Indian cars (since about 2003) can handle E10. Newer Honda cars (since 2009) are fine with E20. Older cars might need special kits (Maruti plans one!) or just extra TLC. Classic, vintage cars have the most to worry about—ethanol absorbs moisture and may eventually cause rust inside the engine.
Turbocharged and fancy engines: Latest studies warn that wrong ethanol blends could spell trouble for your performance car.
What Could the Government and Brands Have Done Better?
Made the switch slower, so people with older cars had time to adjust and save up.
Been very clear about warranties, so you don’t have to play detective or get caught off-guard by insurance fine print.
Already be working on future-proof cars so you’re not stuck with technology that’s obsolete before you know it.
What Should You Do Now—Real-Life Tips
Vintage/luxury cars: Splurge on 100-octane petrol if you can. Yes, it costs more, but it’s a safe bet.
New cars (post-2023, E20-ready): You’re good! Drive on, worry-free.
Older cars: Watch your mileage, listen for engine changes, and keep up with maintenance. Look out for conversion kits—they might save you big trouble!
Don’t Panic—But Be Smart!
Ethanol blending isn’t a crisis. It’s a slow change, kind of like how you barely notice you’re aging until you see an old photo! If you want to play it ultra-safe, use premium fuel or tune up your car when you start seeing problems.
What’s Coming Next?
Brands like Mahindra, Hyundai Venue, Renault Kiger, and even the new Windfast are launching E20-ready models. Car technology is moving fast, so expect more updates—and cool reviews—soon! With Dream Machine.
Drive safe, take care, and see you tomorrow! Thank you 😊