In the wake of ongoing tensions in West Asia and growing pressure on energy supplies, the Indian government has taken a key decision to promote the use of alternative fuels. The central government has given official permission to use 100 percent ethanol (E100) fuel in vehicles with flex-fuel technology. Union Minister of Road Transport and National Highways Nitin Gadkari announced this. He said that the signatures on the file related to the use of E100 fuel have been completed, thus paving the way for the use of pure ethanol fuel in the country.
India has achieved the E20 target early
India has already met the target of 20 percent ethanol blend (E20) in petrol. The government claims that this has reduced dependence on crude oil imports and saved the country more than Rs.1 lakh crore in foreign exchange. Buoyed by this success, the Center is now taking steps towards a fully ethanol-based transport system.
What did Gadkari say?
Speaking at an event in Nagpur, Nitin Gadkari said, “I signed the file last night at 8 pm allowing the legal use of 100 percent ethanol. I am happy to share this with you.” He noted that once the idea was ridiculed by many and there were even anti-campaigns to block the ethanol project, but now the dream is coming true.
Auto companies gearing up for ethanol vehicles
Leading automobile companies in the country are preparing to launch 100 percent ethanol powered vehicles in the market. Recently, Maruti Suzuki unveiled its flex-fuel WagonR variant in the presence of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. Also Hero MotoCorp has introduced flex-fuel motorcycles like Splendor and HF Deluxe.
New vehicles in two months
“Many automobile companies will launch 100 percent ethanol-powered vehicles in the next two months,” revealed Gadkari. Companies like Toyota, Suzuki, MG and Hyundai will soon bring ethanol-compatible vehicles to the market, he said.
Setting up of ethanol pumps across the country
A network of special ethanol fuel pumps is also being set up to accelerate the government’s ethanol mission. Ethanol pumps are now coming up in major cities. The government is working towards increasing their number to 5,000 by 2027.
Profit for farmers.. Energy security for the country
India imports a huge amount of crude oil every year. This puts a heavy burden on the foreign exchange. The government hopes to reduce oil imports by increasing the use of ethanol as a substitute for petrol. This not only saves foreign exchange but also increases the income of farmers who are producers of crops like sugarcane. At the same time, the government believes that the country’s energy security will be further strengthened.
