India Legalises 100% Ethanol Fuel for Vehicles

India has moved closer to adopting alternative fuels as Nitin Gadkari announced approval of regulations allowing 100% ethanol fuel for vehicles. The new rules legally recognise E100-powered vehicles and support India's efforts to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels. The decision gives legal recognition to ethanol-powered vehicles and is expected to support the country's efforts to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.

Speaking at an event in Nagpur, Gadkari said, "Last night at 8 PM, I signed the file, finalising the regulations to legally authorise the use of 100% ethanol." He added that ethanol can become an alternative to petrol and help lower India's fuel import costs.

E100 Fuel Receives Legal Approval

The new regulations are part of proposed amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR). They aim to support wider use of fuels such as E85 ethanol, E100 ethanol, biodiesel, and hydrogen-CNG blends.

Gadkari also recalled how the idea was initially met with scepticism. "People used to laugh when I spoke of this dream, and some friends even criticised it," he said, highlighting how ethanol-based mobility has now become a reality.

Automakers Preparing Ethanol-Compatible Vehicles

According to Gadkari, several automobile manufacturers are expected to launch ethanol-compatible vehicles within the next month and a half. He mentioned companies including Toyota, Suzuki, Hyundai, and MG among those working on flex-fuel models.

The announcement follows the recent launch of Hero MotoCorp's flex-fuel variants of the Splendor+ and HF Deluxe motorcycles. A flex-fuel version of the Maruti Suzuki WagonR has also been showcased as part of the government's alternative fuel initiative.

Ethanol Push Aims to Reduce Oil Imports

The government believes that wider adoption of ethanol can help reduce India's dependence on imported crude oil while creating new opportunities for farmers. Ethanol is produced from agricultural feedstocks such as sugarcane, corn, and surplus grains, making it a domestically sourced fuel.

Gadkari also revealed plans for a hydrogen mobility pilot project in Nagpur, which will include a hydrogen fuel station and two hydrogen-powered buses. He said the project would showcase the potential of clean and sustainable transportation technologies in India.