India launches E85 fuel, targets expansion of flex-fuel vehicle ecosystem
In India, BioEnergy Times reported that India has taken another step in its biofuel transition with the launch of E85 fuel, as the government seeks to accelerate the adoption of flex-fuel vehicles and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.
Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri formally launched E85 fuel at an Indian Oil Corporation fuel station in New Delhi on World Environment Day, according to the report.
Puri said E85 represents the next phase of India’s biofuel program following the successful rollout of E20 petrol and the achievement of the country’s 20% ethanol blending target ahead of schedule, it added.
The minister emphasized that E85 and E20 are designed for different categories of vehicles. While E20 can be used in vehicles compatible with up to 20% ethanol blending, E85 contains 80-85% ethanol and is intended exclusively for flex-fuel vehicles. He clarified that the introduction of E85 does not affect existing E20-compatible or conventional petrol vehicles, which will continue to remain in use.
Category: Policy
