TL;DR
India will enforce E20 petrol with RON 95 from April 1, 2026, requiring older vehicle owners to check compatibility due to potential engine wear.
From April 1, 2026, petrol pumps across India will transition to supplying ethanol-blended petrol containing up to 20% ethanol (E20) and a minimum Research Octane Number (RON) of 95. This directive from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas marks a significant step in India's ethanol-blending roadmap, aiming to reduce crude oil imports, cut emissions, and bolster energy security.
While new vehicles are increasingly E20-compatible, owners of older petrol cars (particularly pre-2020 models) are advised to check their owner's manuals for compatibility and consult service centers. Continuous use of E20 in non-compatible engines could lead to increased wear in fuel pumps and injectors. This policy shift underscores India's commitment to cleaner mobility and renewable fuel sources.
