No petrol needed: Centre approves E85 and E100 ethanol-powered cars

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Central Government has taken a revolutionary step towards tackling the rising prices of crude oil, billion dollar import bill and pollution caused by fossil fuels. The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has officially approved the rules for vehicles running on 100 percent bio-ethanol i.e. E100 and E85 fuel with 85 percent ethanol blend in the country. On October 23, the Ministry has issued a gazette notification amending the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR), 1989, completely clearing the legal path for automobile companies to manufacture and market E100 flex-fuel vehicles.

Major amendments to the rules: E100 testing standards set, weight limit also increased

Under a government notification, the emission provisions, fuel quality, and vehicle testing standards of Central Motor Vehicles Rule 115 have been comprehensively reformed. E100 has now been formally included alongside E85 in various sub-rules, simplifying the certification and testing process for 100% bio-ethanol models for auto companies. Furthermore, the gross vehicle weight limit for vehicles under the rules has been increased from 3,000 kg to 3,500 kg. Public and industry comments were sought on these draft rules in April this year, after which they have now been formally enacted into law.

What are E85 and E100 fuels, and how does flex-fuel technology work?

Simply put, E85 is a mixture of approximately 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent petrol, while E100 is almost 100 percent pure bio-ethanol, primarily produced from sugarcane juice, corn, or other agricultural residues. Vehicles running on this fuel are called "flex-fuel vehicles" (FFVs). These vehicles are equipped with a special engine, fuel injection system, and sensors that automatically detect any ratio of petrol and ethanol (from E85 to E100) in the fuel tank and enable the engine to run smoothly.

Can you fill your existing car with E100 fuel?

In the notification, the government has made it absolutely clear that no driver can directly fill their existing regular petrol car or E20 (20% ethanol) compatible car with E85 or E100 fuel. Since pure ethanol has a completely different chemical density and nature than regular petrol, using it in a regular petrol engine can cause engine parts and fuel lines to corrode. E85 or E100 fuel can only be used in new flex-fuel cars specifically designed and certified by car manufacturers (OEMs). Existing petrol car owners need not worry; they will not need to make any changes to their cars and it is being offered as a completely environmentally friendly alternative.