New Delhi: A new-generation biofuel, E85, has been officially launched in the national capital at a price of ₹82 per litre, offering motorists a significantly cheaper alternative to conventional fuels. The newly introduced fuel is nearly ₹20 cheaper than the currently available E20 petrol, a move expected to provide substantial relief to daily commuters and vehicle owners amid rising transportation costs.
E85 is a specialized biofuel comprising 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent petrol. The ethanol used in the blend is produced from domestically available resources such as sugarcane residue, damaged food grains, and agricultural waste. With India’s ethanol production witnessing steady growth, the government has been able to make the fuel available at a competitive price while simultaneously reducing the country’s dependence on imported crude oil.
However, E85 cannot be used in all conventional vehicles. The fuel is designed exclusively for flex-fuel vehicles, which are equipped with engines capable of operating on higher ethanol blends. Owners of standard petrol-powered vehicles will need compatible flex-fuel engines to utilize the new fuel.
Apart from its economic advantages, E85 is also expected to deliver significant environmental benefits. Compared to conventional petrol, the fuel produces lower emissions, helping reduce vehicular pollution and supporting India’s broader clean-energy and sustainability objectives. The launch marks another step in the government’s efforts to promote alternative fuels and strengthen the country’s energy security.