'Show me one car damaged by E20': Nitin Gadkari challenges critics

New Delhi: Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday strongly defended the government's E20 petrol programme, challenging critics to name even one vehicle that has suffered damage because of ethanol-blended fuel. Addressing the growing controversy over E20, Gadkari said those alleging vehicle damage should send details of the affected car to both the manufacturer and him. "Name one car that has faced issues due to ethanol-blended petrol. Send the complaint to the dealer and to me," he said, asserting that no such verified case has come to the government's notice. The minister's remarks come amid an intensifying debate over E20 petrol after opposition leaders and several motorists raised concerns over its impact on engines, fuel efficiency and older vehicles. Gadkari reiterated that ethanol blending is aimed at reducing India's dependence on imported crude oil, cutting emissions and boosting farmers' incomes by creating demand for crops such as sugarcane and maize. He said the country must gradually move towards cleaner and alternative fuels instead of relying solely on petrol and diesel. The latest intervention follows criticism by AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, who questioned the government's push for E20 and sought written assurances from automobile manufacturers that ethanol-blended fuel does not damage vehicles or adversely affect performance. The Centre has consistently rejected such claims. Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri had recently termed the controversy a "misrepresentation", maintaining that E20-compatible vehicles do not face engine-related issues due to the fuel. The controversy gained momentum after the nationwide rollout of E20 petrol, with concerns focusing on possible engine damage, reduced mileage and the compatibility of older vehicles. Automobile manufacturers have largely maintained that E20 does not damage engines, though some have acknowledged that fuel efficiency may decline marginally because ethanol has lower energy content than conventional petrol. The exchange comes days after the government indicated that there is no immediate plan to move to E25 fuel, amid growing public scrutiny of India's ethanol-blending programme.