India is preparing to introduce E85, a new high-ethanol fuel blend containing around 85% ethanol, as part of its broader strategy to reduce dependence on imported crude oil and expand the use of cleaner alternative fuels. Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri is set to launch the fuel at an Indian Oil Corporation outlet in New Delhi, with initial availability planned at 50 fuel stations across the country.
The move builds on India’s ongoing ethanol-blending programme, which already distributes E20 petrol nationwide. Officials believe the higher ethanol blend could further lower emissions while supporting energy security and reducing the country’s import bill.
The launch comes as India continues to witness strong growth in petrol consumption, driven largely by two-wheelers and personal mobility. Policymakers view ethanol-based fuels as a practical transition solution alongside electric vehicles, whose adoption remains constrained by higher costs and limited charging infrastructure.
To support the rollout, vehicle manufacturers have begun introducing compatible models. Earlier this week, E85-ready variants of motorcycles and passenger vehicles were showcased, signalling efforts to create an ecosystem for wider adoption of flex-fuel technology.
Ethanol, produced from agricultural feedstocks such as sugarcane, maize and rice, could also provide additional income opportunities for farmers by increasing demand for crop by-products. Government officials expect the new fuel to strengthen both rural economies and India’s clean-energy ambitions.
