E20 Petrol Now in 100+ Cities Including Patna & Lucknow: Is Your Car Compatible?
The Government of India has accelerated its biofuel programme, bringing E20 petrol—a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% conventional petrol—to pump stations in more than 100 Indian cities, including key hubs like Patna and Lucknow. Here’s everything vehicle owners need to know about what E20 is, where it’s now available, how to check compatibility, and the implications of using E20 in older, non-compliant cars.
What Is E20 Petrol?
E20 petrol contains 20% ethanol and 80% petrol by volume. Ethanol is a renewable, alcohol-based fuel derived from sources such as sugarcane, corn, or biomass. This blend is part of India’s aggressive push to reduce carbon emissions, boost domestic ethanol demand, and lower oil import bills.
Ethanol blends typically have a higher octane rating than regular petrol, improving engine knock resistance and potentially smoothening performance.
Where Is E20 Available in India Today?
The rollout of E20 petrol is already nationwide. As of August 2025:
All major petrol stations across India now sell E20 fuel.
Reports confirm a presence in over 100 cities, notably including Patna and Lucknow, aligning with the “100+ cities” expansion. While precise city-by-city data may vary, nationally the rollout has been swift and widespread.
Back in April 2024, around 13,569 PSU outlets were offering E20, representing significant progress toward coverage.
This marks a major shift toward sustainable fuel usage across India, with E20 becoming the new norm at most fuel stations.
How to Check If Your Car Is E20-Compatible
Before filling up with E20, it’s vital to confirm whether your vehicle can run on this fuel. Here is a clear checklist:
Visit the Fuel Lid or Cap
Some newer vehicles indicate E20 or E10–E20 compatibility right on the fuel cap or adjacent stickers.
Consult the Owner’s Manual
Look under the “Fuel” or “Specifications” section. If you find labels like “E20 compatible” or notes about “Ethanol blend,” your car is good to go.
Check with Manufacturer or Use VIN
Contact your vehicle manufacturer or local dealership with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to confirm compatibility.
Use Official Compatibility Tools
Platforms like the Ethanol Compliance Checker (e.g., ethanolcompliance.in) or EthBlend offer quick checks on whether your vehicle supports E20—backed by manufacturer specifications and ARAI data.
Refer to Brand-Wise E20 Compatibility Lists
Many automakers have proactively made recent models E20-ready, especially post-April 2023:
- Maruti Suzuki (e.g., Wagon R, Swift, Baleno, Brezza, etc.)
- Hyundai (Venue, i10 Nios, i20, Verna, Creta, etc.)
- Tata (Tiago, Altroz, Nexon, Punch, etc.)
- Toyota, Mahindra, MG, Kia, Honda, Skoda, Volkswagen, and more
Always verify if your specific model year is included.
Potential Effects of Using E20 in Non-Compatible (Older) Cars
Using E20 in a non-E20-compatible vehicle may lead to several issues over time—especially for older models designed for E0 or E10 fuel.
Material Degradation
Ethanol can degrade non-resistant rubber seals, gaskets, and plastic fuel lines, leading to leaks or part failures.
Corrosion of Metal Components
Ethanol’s hygroscopic nature may promote metal corrosion in fuel systems not designed for it.
Mileage & Performance Drops
Some users report up to 20% reduction in mileage, sluggish acceleration, or engine knocking.
However, government and research institutions (like ARAI, IIP, Indian Oil) state that in compatible vehicles, the mileage drop is negligible (1–3%), and the fuel may offer smoother performance due to higher octane.
Warranty & Insurance Clarifications
The Ministry of Petroleum has confirmed that using E20 petrol does not void vehicle insurance. Industries like SIAM and ARAI support E20’s benign compatibility with modern vehicles.
Mitigation Options for Older Cars
E20 petrol upgrade kits (e.g., from Maruti for pre-2023 cars), including ethanol-resistant fuel lines and seals, priced between ₹4,000–6,000, are in development.
Alternatively, owners of older vehicles are advised to use lower ethanol blends (e.g. E10) where available or seek modifications via authorized workshops.
Key Highlights of E20 Petrol Expansion
Coverage: E20 petrol is now available in over 100 cities across India, including Patna, Lucknow, Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, and Bengaluru.
Policy Goal: The Government of India aims for 20% ethanol blending in petrol nationwide by 2025–26 under its Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP).
Benefits of E20 Petrol:
- Reduces carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons by up to 20%.
- Supports domestic ethanol production from sugarcane, maize, and agricultural residue.
- Helps lower crude oil import dependency, saving ₹30,000 crore annually (as per official estimates).
Car Compatibility:
- Newer cars (post-April 2023) are mostly E20-ready.
- Check fuel lid, owner’s manual, or OEM’s official website for compatibility.
Impact on Older Cars:
Older cars (not designed for E20) may face engine knocking, corrosion, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential long-term wear if run on E20 fuel.
Availability Timeline: Expansion will continue across more states, targeting pan-India coverage by 2025.
Why This Matters Now
As E20 becomes standard at pumps nationwide, vehicle owners must know:
1. What E20 is and why it’s rolling out – cut emissions,support farmers, energy security.
2. Where it’s available—all major stations, including prominent cities like Patna & Lucknow.
3. Whether your car can handle it—no guesswork if you follow simple compatibility checks.
4. What could go wrong, and how to mitigate risks—especially for older cars.
Final Thoughts: What Should Drivers Do?
If your car is E20-compatible: Fill up with confidence. You’re part of India’s green energy transition with minimal downside.
If uncertain or non-compatible: Use built-in checks or tools to confirm. Consider E10 or a retrofit upgrade, especially for older engines.
Stay informed: Watch for official update kits from OEMs like Maruti and others.
Drive smart: Regular maintenance, proper tyre pressure, and cautious driving help offset mild mileage impacts.
E20 petrol is here to stay—and it’s reshaping India’s fuel landscape. Being in the know gives you control over your car’s performance, cost, and environmental footprint. You can visit the indian official website of E20 petrol launch: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1896729
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