The central government has approved the use of 100% ethanol-blended fuel in the country. To facilitate this, the government has issued a gazette notification amending the Central Motor Vehicles Rules.

This decision comes just before the launch of ‘E100’ vehicles by certain car manufacturers. Under the new amendments, E100—along with E85—has been included within the emission provisions.

Officials have clarified that E85 and E100 fuels can only be used in vehicles specifically designed and certified for their use.

No impact on existing car owners

The government has clarified that vehicles designed to run on E20 petrol or conventional fuel cannot operate on E85 or E100 fuel.

This new notification does not require existing vehicle owners to switch to E85 or E100 fuel, nor does it necessitate any modifications to their current vehicles.

This serves as an entirely alternative arrangement—both for the present and the future.

Reduction in pollution and oil imports

Compared to traditional petrol, ethanol has a significantly lower fossil carbon footprint. Using higher blends of ethanol will help reduce carbon monoxide (CO) and certain hydrocarbon emissions from vehicle exhausts.

Furthermore, increased use of ethanol will substantially reduce the country’s dependence on crude oil imports.

What is E100 fuel?

E100 refers to 100% pure ethanol fuel. Ethanol is a biofuel primarily derived from plants and biological sources, such as sugarcane and maize.