en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Indian government has begun testing E25 gasoline in vehicles to evaluate the performance of this blended fuel containing 25% ethanol, as part of efforts to increase the use of local biofuels and reduce dependence on imported crude oil. The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) has been tasked with this study and has started testing the effectiveness of E25 gasoline in vehicles compliant with E10 and E20 standards.

The government is exploring increasing the ethanol content in gasoline, despite facing consumer criticism over its E20 gasoline mandate that took effect in April, with many complaining about reduced fuel efficiency. In some cases, consumers have pointed out damage to vehicles not compatible with the fuel, but the government and industry have denied claims that E20 damages vehicles. ARAI will test the impact of the blended fuel on performance and fuel efficiency over a test mileage of 150,000 kilometers. The report, expected to be completed by the end of next year, will then be submitted to the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) for review. A senior ministry official familiar with the matter said that once the study passes ICAT review, it will be submitted to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, which will decide whether and when to mandate the use and sale of higher ethanol blends domestically. Production of vehicles compliant with E20 material requirements began in April 2023. Since April 1, 2025, all vehicles sold in India have met E20 material and fuel standards. Since April 1 this year, gasoline sold nationwide must comply with E20 standards. A senior industry executive said that given the backlash the government has faced over E20, increasing ethanol content has become a risky decision.