Consumers in India are facing a 'double whammy' as ethanol-blended petrol (E20) reduces vehicle mileage by 2-6%, despite often being priced higher. Both the automobile industry and the government acknowledge this efficiency drop, leading to increased complaints from vehicle owners. A 2021 Niti Aayog report had previously recommended lowering the retail price of such fuels to offset the reduced calorific value and encourage adoption. While the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) found no adverse impact on vehicles in testing, the economic burden on consumers remains a key concern.

Source: The Times of India