Centre Prepares Roadmap For Flex-Fuel Vehicles Amid Global Energy Market Uncertainty

(MENAFN- KNN India) New Delhi, Apr 20 (KNN) India is gearing up for a nationwide push to promote flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) which can run on ethanol blends of up to E85 (85% ethanol and 15% petrol).

The renewed push for the flex-fuel vehicles is aimed at cutting reliance on crude oil imports in the wake of rising uncertainty in the global energy market.

The proposed move marks a shift beyond the current 20 per cent ethanol blending mandate implemented in 2025, which had faced concerns from consumers over reduced mileage and engine performance, reported The Economic Times.

Roadmap Under Review with Industry Participation

According to multiple media reports, officials from the Union petroleum and natural gas ministry are set to review a roadmap prepared by a working group tasked with outlining the rollout strategy for FFVs.

The group comprises representatives from oil marketing companies, automobile manufacturers and various government departments.

The working group will present its recommendations on the rollout of FFVs to senior stakeholders, including state-run oil firms and members of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers.

Energy Security Push Amid Global Volatility

The initiative comes amid heightened volatility in global oil markets due to ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Crude prices have fluctuated sharply in recent weeks, briefly crossing the USD 100-per-barrel mark before easing following a temporary ceasefire.

Concerns have also intensified due to disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for global energy supplies, further underlining the need for alternative fuel strategies.

With the transport sector accounting for a significant share of India's fuel consumption, the government is increasingly focusing on fuel diversification to enhance long-term energy security.

The planned push for FFVs is expected to complement broader efforts to expand ethanol production and promote cleaner, domestically sourced fuel alternatives.

(KNN Bureau)

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