The Government of India, through the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), has recently issued a draft notification (April 27, 2026) to introduce E85 (85% ethanol + 15% petrol) and E100 as official fuels by amending the Central Motor Vehicles Rules.
We strongly oppose this move.
Most cars, bikes, and scooters on Indian roads today, especially older vehicles and two-wheelers, are designed only for low ethanol blends like E10 or E20. High ethanol blends like E85 and E100 are highly corrosive. They can damage rubber hoses, seals, gaskets, plastic parts, and metal components in the fuel system. This will lead to leaks, corrosion, clogged filters, rough idling, and expensive repairs for millions of vehicle owners.
Ethanol has significantly lower energy content than normal petrol. This means a sharp drop in mileage, up to 20-30% worse fuel efficiency in many cases. For common people already struggling with rising costs, this will increase the real running cost per kilometre.
India still has very few flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) that can safely run on E85 or E100. Forcing these fuels without proper infrastructure, widespread compatible vehicles, and long-term testing is unfair and will harm ordinary citizens.
We demand:

Keep normal petrol (low ethanol options) widely available as a choice for all vehicles.
Do not push E85 and E100 until the majority of vehicles on road are compatible.
Conduct transparent, independent tests on real Indian vehicles and publish the impact on mileage and engine longevity.
Protect consumers from forced higher running costs and potential engine damage.

This is not against farmers or energy security...it is about protecting vehicle owners from premature and costly decisions.
Please sign and share this petition so the government hears the voice of common citizens before finalising this policy.