The government is preparing to introduce blended fuel in diesel, similar to E20 petrol. However, instead of ethanol, isobutanol will be blended. This experiment is currently in its testing phase. The aim is to reduce pollution and decrease the country's dependence on oil imports, but a timeline has not yet been set.
Blended diesel: The Government of India has successfully commenced the supply of E20 petrol across the country, which contains 20% ethanol and 80% petrol. Preparations are now underway to introduce a similar blended fuel in diesel. However, a previous attempt to blend ethanol with diesel was unsuccessful, hence isobutanol will be used this time. Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari stated that this experiment is in its testing phase and the decision to expand it will depend on the trial results.
Previous attempt to blend ethanol in diesel was unsuccessful
According to media reports, the government had previously experimented with blending 10% ethanol in diesel. This experiment did not prove successful. Following this, efforts to blend isobutanol with diesel have now commenced. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, recently provided this information. He stated that this is currently in an experimental phase, and the decision to sell it by blending isobutanol with diesel will depend on the upcoming results.
E20 Petrol: Already implemented in the country
E20 petrol is available across India. It consists of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol. Ethanol is primarily produced from grains such as sugarcane, corn, and rice. Its rollout began at select petrol stations in April 2023 and it has been implemented nationwide by April 2025. Prior to this, E10 petrol was in use, which contained only 10% ethanol.
Government's Objective
The government's objective is to reduce oil imports and decrease environmental pollution. Following the success of E20 petrol, the preparation for blending in diesel is another step in this direction. Isobutanol blended diesel is considered environmentally friendly, and its use is expected to improve diesel performance. The government believes that this new formula will reduce pollution caused by conventional diesel and strengthen the country's fuel security.
Potential Challenges and Reactions
However, vehicle owners and service centers have expressed some concerns regarding this new experiment. They state that fuels with higher ethanol content or its alternatives could reduce mileage in older vehicles and affect the engine. The Union Minister stated in this regard that the criticisms raised on social media about E20 petrol were not based on reality, and the Supreme Court has already dismissed petitions filed on this subject.
Isobutanol Diesel: What will change
Isobutanol is a chemical derived from ethanol. Blending it with diesel is expected to improve fuel quality and environmental impact. This experiment is currently in its testing phase, and if successful, blended diesel could be made available nationwide in the future. This will not only reduce dependence on oil imports but also promote the use of green fuel.
