The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has amended the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR), 1989, to formally permit E85 and E100 ethanol fuels for specially designed and certified flex-fuel vehicles. The move expands India’s ethanol-based mobility options while supporting efforts to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.
What are the Key Changes in CMVR?
MoRTH has amended Rules 115 and 115E of the CMVR to incorporate E85 and E100 into the prescribed fuel and emission-testing specifications.
The approval applies only to vehicles specifically engineered and certified by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) for these fuels. Existing petrol vehicle owners are not required to convert their vehicles to ethanol-based fuels.
A vehicle designed for E10 or E20 is also not automatically compatible with E85 or E100. Consumers must follow the manufacturer’s instructions and check the fuel-compatibility information provided for their vehicle.
What are Flex-Fuel Vehicles?
Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs) are designed to operate on petrol as well as different ethanol-petrol mixtures. Depending on their certification, they can use blends containing high levels of ethanol, including E85 or E100.
Their engine-management systems can identify variations in fuel composition and adjust engine operation accordingly. However, the permitted fuel range depends on the specific vehicle design and certification.
What is Ethanol?
Ethanol, or ethyl alcohol, is a renewable biofuel that can be produced through fermentation of sugars as well as certain industrial processes.
In India, ethanol is mainly produced from sugarcane molasses, maize and surplus food grains. Greater ethanol use can help diversify the country’s energy sources while creating additional demand for agricultural feedstocks.
What is the Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme?
The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme, launched in 2003 and supported by the National Policy on Biofuels, 2018, seeks to reduce crude-oil imports, lower emissions and provide additional opportunities for farmers.
India achieved its 20% ethanol-blending target in 2025, ahead of the original 2030 deadline. From April 2026, petrol sold across India is required to contain 20% ethanol and meet a minimum Research Octane Number (RON) of 95.
The CMVR amendment therefore adds a new pathway for higher ethanol use while keeping vehicle compatibility and safety at the centre of the transition.
FAQs - E100 ethanol fuel
What is E100 ethanol fuel?
E100 refers to fuel consisting essentially of ethanol, intended for vehicles specifically designed and certified to use it.
What is the difference between E85 and E100?
E85 generally contains approximately 85% ethanol mixed with petrol, while E100 consists essentially of ethanol. Both require compatible vehicles.
Can existing petrol vehicles use E100 fuel?
No. Vehicles designed for E10 or E20 are not automatically compatible with E100. Owners must follow the manufacturer’s approved fuel specifications.
What are flex-fuel vehicles?
Flex-fuel vehicles can operate on different petrol–ethanol mixtures within their certified fuel range. Their engine-management systems adjust operation according to fuel composition.
Why is India promoting ethanol fuel?
Ethanol can help reduce dependence on imported petroleum, diversify energy sources and create demand for agricultural feedstocks such as sugarcane molasses and maize.
