Nitin Gadkari Fires Back on E20 Petrol Row

Nitin Gadkari Fires Back on E20 Petrol Row: “Dashboard Mileage is Just Guesswork – No Proof of Engine Damage!”

New Delhi: In a recent no-holds-barred interview with ABP News, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari directly addressed the rising concerns and controversies surrounding the government’s push for E20 (20% ethanol-blended) petrol.

As more drivers report noticeable drops in mileage after switching to the blended fuel, Gadkari sought to set the record straight with facts, science, and practical advice.

“You Can’t Accurately Check Mileage at Home”

When the interviewer shared that her car’s dashboard showed a significant drop in fuel efficiency, Gadkari clarified that ordinary vehicle owners cannot reliably calculate true mileage on their own.

“Dashboard readings are only estimates. Precise fuel efficiency can only be measured using specialized diagnostic machines at company-authorised service centres,” he stated.

No Scientific Evidence of Engine Damage

Gadkari firmly rejected claims that E20 fuel harms modern vehicle engines.

“There is no scientific evidence to support these allegations. Critics should produce verified proof that certified E20 petrol has damaged any car,” he challenged.

He emphasised that vehicles compliant with current emission norms are designed to handle the ethanol blend without issues.

Why Mileage May Drop Slightly

The Minister did acknowledge one key reality: ethanol has a lower calorific value than conventional petrol. This can lead to a marginal reduction in fuel efficiency, especially on highways. However, he noted the difference is minimal in city driving conditions.

He also pointed out that several other factors play a bigger role in mileage:

• Driving style
• Tire pressure
• Road conditions
• Vehicle maintenance

Official Advice to Vehicle Owners

Gadkari urged owners not to immediately blame E20 for any mechanical issues or mileage drops. Instead, he advised:

• Take the vehicle to an authorised service centre for proper inspection using diagnostic tools.
• If a genuine ethanol-related fault is confirmed, manufacturers are obligated to fix it under warranty.

Rejects Family Business Allegations

Addressing personal attacks, Gadkari dismissed accusations that he is promoting E20 to benefit his family’s sugar and ethanol businesses.

“Ethanol production accounts for less than 10% of my family’s business turnover,” he clarified.

The government has been aggressively promoting ethanol blending as part of its strategy to reduce oil imports, cut pollution, and support farmers. While E20 rollout continues nationwide, this interview aims to ease public anxiety and counter misinformation circulating on social media.

Vehicle owners experiencing issues are encouraged to get professional diagnostics rather than relying solely on dashboard displays.

What are your thoughts on E20 petrol? Have you noticed any change in mileage? Share your experience in the comments below.

Stay tuned for more updates on India’s fuel policy and automotive sector.

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