BS-III Vehicles May Require Rubber Part Changes for E20 Petrol Use, Says Gadkari
In a recent address to the rajya sabha, union minister nitin gadkari revealed that certain bharat stage (bs)-iii vehicles manufactured between 2005 and 2016 mig
In a recent address to the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari revealed that certain Bharat Stage (BS)-III vehicles manufactured between 2005 and 2016 might necessitate the replacement of specific rubber components and gaskets prior to utilizing E20 petrol. This information was shared in response to inquiries during the parliamentary session. Gadkari highlighted that research conducted by the Indian Oil Corporation, the Indian Institute of Petroleum in Dehradun, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), and the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) indicated that modifications to the engines of cars and two-wheelers are not required for them to operate on E20 fuel. The minister emphasized that the studies concluded that the performance of older vehicles remains unaffected when using E20 petrol, with no significant wear and tear observed. He further noted that key performance indicators, such as drivability and startability, along with the compatibility of both metal and plastic components, were not compromised.
Gadkari elaborated that only BS-III vehicles manufactured after April 1, 2005, and before 2016 might need certain rubber parts and gaskets replaced, a process that can be easily integrated into regular vehicle servicing. He also pointed out that automobile manufacturers and vehicle testing agencies clarified that factors influencing mileage are varied, and the use of E20 fuel alone does not determine fuel efficiency. The Union Minister for Road and Transport informed the Rajya Sabha about the establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Committee led by NITI Aayog on December 26, 2020, which conducted a thorough assessment of vehicle compatibility, mileage, and efficiency concerning ethanol-blended petrol. The committee's findings were corroborated by research from Indian Oil, ARAI, and SIAM, leading to the release of a report titled 'Roadmap for Ethanol Blending in India 2020-25' in June 2021, prior to the rollout of E20 fuel.
