New Delhi — An internal study by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) suggests that using 20 percent ethanol blends (E20) in gasoline could hasten the deterioration of rubber components in vehicles originally certified for 10 percent ethanol blends (E10).
The unpublished report, obtained by the Times of India, indicates that while metallic parts such as pistons and cylinder heads showed no measurable adverse effects, several rubber seals and hoses exhibited signs of softening and cracking after prolonged exposure to E20 fuel. The study also notes that tail‑pipe emissions from the test vehicles remained within the limits set by current Indian legislation.
Testing involved both passenger‑car and two‑wheeler engines. A BS‑VI turbocharged gasoline engine displayed material‑related issues after a durability run with E20, whereas a comparable BS‑IV engine did not exhibit the same problems. In contrast, two‑wheeler engines subjected to the same fuel blend completed durability cycles without significant degradation, according to the ARAI data.
Fuel consumption was reported to rise by approximately two to six percent when switching from E10 to E20, a figure the researchers attribute to the lower energy density of ethanol.
Analysis:
If confirmed, the findings could have implications for India’s policy push to increase ethanol content in gasoline as part of its biofuel mandate. The reported rubber‑part wear may compel automakers to redesign seals, gaskets and other elastomeric components to be compatible with higher ethanol blends, potentially raising vehicle costs. The lack of impact on metallic parts suggests that engine wear may not be a primary concern, but the observed increase in fuel consumption could affect the projected fuel‑economy benefits of the ethanol program.
The ARAI report has not yet been released publicly, and the agency has not commented on the methodology or sample size of the tests. Further independent verification will be needed before regulators can assess whether current vehicle certification standards require revision to accommodate E20 fuel.
Sources
Times of India, “E20 fuel may damage rubber parts in E10 cars, said unpublished report,” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/e20-fuel-may-damage-rubber-parts-in-e10-cars-said-unpublished-report/articleshow/132227500.cms
Story synopsis gathered from: Times of India – Top Stories — source
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