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New Delhi: The government today admitted that petrol blended with 20% ethanol – commonly known as E20 – can reduce fuel economy by 3-5%.

The oil ministry has released a question-and-answer document, ostensibly to counter criticism of the Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme.

In it, the government says: “It is true that in some vehicles there may be a 3-5% reduction in fuel economy. But mileage is only one parameter.”

The sale of E20 petrol has been mandated in the country from April 1. Criticism and concern has poured in, with vehicle users and makers both saying that the blended fuel reacts poorly and reduces mileage.

According to recent survey, 66% of owners of pre-2023 petrol vehicles said their vehicles’ fuel efficiency had fallen by more than 10% since early 2025, compared with 45% in a similar survey conducted in May 2026. The share of respondents reporting unusual wear and tear or increased repair requirements also rose to 55% from 29% during the same period.

The Modi government has been eager to show that the project has not been........

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