Following the successful 20% ethanol blending in petrol, the Indian government plans to elevate the target to 27% introducing the new E27 blended fuel. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has been tasked to establish norms for the E27 fuel promptly, with initial consultations scheduled for next week. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has requested the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) to study engine modifications required for accommodating petrol with a 27% ethanol blend. These initiatives are pivotal as a committee of senior officials is nearing completion of a report outlining the roadmap to increase ethanol percentage in petrol as part of India’s strategy to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and support farmer income. Additionally, BIS is set to define standards for a 10% blend of isobutanol (IBA) in diesel, focusing on alternative fuels. The deployment of both E27 and 10% blend of IBA in diesel awaits thorough consultations with stakeholders, prioritizing these measures. Furthermore, the proposal to allow automobile manufacturers to produce and register 100% ethanol-fueled vehicles (E100) has progressed with draft norms issued by the Ministry of Road Transport inviting feedback from stakeholders.
