By Soniya:
On World Environment Day 2026, Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri launched E85 fuel, a new petrol blend containing up to 85% ethanol and 15% petrol. The initiative is aimed at reducing India’s dependence on imported crude oil, lowering carbon emissions, and promoting sustainable transportation.
E85 fuel is specially designed for Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs), which can run on varying blends of ethanol and petrol. Since ethanol is produced from renewable agricultural sources such as sugarcane, maize, rice, and biomass, E85 is considered a cleaner and more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional petrol.
The rollout has begun in phases at select fuel stations across Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur. Initially, E85 will be available at around 50 outlets, with plans for wider expansion in the coming years. The fuel is expected to cost nearly ₹20 less per litre than E20 petrol, making it an attractive option for consumers.
The launch of E85 supports India’s goals of enhancing energy security, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and strengthening the domestic ethanol industry. It is also expected to benefit farmers by creating greater demand for agricultural feedstocks used in ethanol production.
With the introduction of E85 fuel, India takes another significant step toward cleaner mobility, reduced oil imports, and a more sustainable energy future.
