A Raipur consumer court has directed Maruti Suzuki and its dealer to rectify defects in a Grand Vitara Strong Hybrid and compensate the owner within 45 days in a dispute involving E20 petrol compatibility. If they fail to comply, they must either replace the vehicle with a new E20-compatible model or refund its on-road cost, making the ruling a significant consumer rights development.

The government has directed automakers to replace damaged rubber components in older petrol cars affected by E20 fuel, while reiterating that E20 does not damage engines.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor has clarified that the recent Innova Hycross incident was caused by contaminated fuel, not E20 petrol. Following a detailed technical investigation, the company found no damage linked to E20 fuel and reiterated that the MPV is fully certified for E20 petrol.

India’s leading automobile manufacturers and government representatives held a rare joint press conference to address growing public discussions surrounding E20 petrol. The industry shared testing data, clarified concerns over engine compatibility and fuel efficiency, and explained the role of E20 in India’s broader ethanol blending programme.

India has officially approved regulations for E100 (100% ethanol) fuel, marking a major shift in the country’s biofuel strategy. The move paves the way for ethanol-only and flex-fuel vehicles, aiming to reduce crude oil imports, boost farmer incomes, improve energy security, and lower vehicle emissions.