E85, E100 Fuel Draft Norms Issued; Next Phase of India’s Ethanol Plan Under Review

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has released a draft notification proposing amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR), 1989, to introduce higher ethanol-blended fuels, including E85 and E100. Issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, the proposal is currently open for public feedback before a final notification is published. This marks the next step in India’s ethanol roadmap after the nationwide rollout of E20 fuel in April 2025.

The draft sets out a revised fuel classification structure to include higher ethanol blends. Petrol nomenclature is proposed to move from E10/E to E10/E20, while E85 and E100 are to be formally defined within the regulatory framework.

Biodiesel classification is also set to expand from B10 to B100. In parallel, hydrogen fuel terminology is proposed to be updated from “Hydrogen + CN” to “Hydrogen + CNG”. The draft also standardizes emission testing parameters and technical definitions.

A separate regulatory change includes increasing the gross vehicle weight threshold from 3,000 kg to 3,500 kg in select vehicle categories.

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India completed the rollout of E20 fuel in 2025, ahead of its earlier 2030 target. The shift towards E85 and E100 follows this milestone and is aligned with efforts to reduce crude oil imports and manage supply-side risks linked to global developments.

Official estimates indicate that ethanol blending has already contributed to a reduction in crude oil consumption and foreign exchange outgo, while also supporting domestic agricultural supply chains.

At present, there is no change for buyers, as E20 remains the standard fuel. However, the draft points to a gradual move towards flex-fuel powertrains.

Vehicles manufactured after April 2023 are E20-compliant. Transitioning to E85 or E100 will require re-engineering of engines, fuel delivery systems and materials due to ethanol’s chemical properties, including higher moisture absorption and corrosion risk.

For existing vehicles, especially older models, higher ethanol blends may result in reduced fuel efficiency and increased component wear. Some manufacturers have introduced E20 compatibility kits, but E85 readiness will require more extensive changes.

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The rollout of E85 will also depend on fuel distribution upgrades. Retail outlets will need additional storage and dispensing infrastructure to handle multiple fuel grades, including E20, E85 and conventional petrol.

Ethanol-blended fuels also have lower energy density compared to petrol, which can affect fuel efficiency. This remains a key consideration for both consumers and manufacturers, particularly in the absence of any announced fiscal incentives.