Amid E20 row, first talks underway on feasibility of an E10 option as well

Government and industry officials are currently exploring the feasibility of offering E10 petrol alongside the currently sold E20 fuel, according to sources familiar with the matter. E10 contains 10% ethanol, while E20 consists of 80% petrol and 20% ethanol. The government has been attempting to allay concerns that E20 may reduce mileage in older vehicles and damage engine components, stating that these impacts would be minimal.

However, some opposition leaders have questioned why consumers are not given the option to choose between pure petrol, E10, and E20. The discussions, described as preliminary and focused on older vehicles, are examining both technical and non-technical aspects of India's intricate fuel retail supply chain. The government had previously dismissed the idea of offering multiple base petrol variants due to the logistical challenges, costs, and operational inefficiencies it would introduce.

Despite this, an opinion article co-authored by the Chief Economic Adviser suggests that providing E10 alongside E20 could help alleviate public concerns, reduce ethanol use, and maintain the functionality of older vehicles while the retrofit program progresses.