India Launches E85 Fuel: Cost-Effective but Lower Efficiency
E85 fuel costs less than petrol, but here’s the fuel-efficiency reality
The Times Of IndiaImage: The Times Of India
India has inaugurated its first E85 fuel dispenser in Delhi, pricing it at ₹82.12 per litre, making it cheaper than regular petrol. However, E85, containing 85% ethanol, typically offers 20-30% lower fuel efficiency compared to petrol, affecting overall savings for consumers.
- 01E85 fuel is priced at ₹82.12 per litre, approximately ₹20 less than E20 petrol in Delhi.
- 02E85 consists of 85% ethanol and 15% petrol, leading to lower energy content and efficiency.
- 03Flex-fuel vehicles using E85 may experience a 20-30% drop in fuel efficiency compared to petrol.
- 04Only a few vehicles in India, like the Hero MotoCorp Splendor+ Flex Fuel, are compatible with E85.
- 05The government plans to increase E85 infrastructure with 500 dispensing stations by 2026 and 5,000 by 2027.
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India has officially launched E85 fuel with the inauguration of its first dispenser in Delhi, priced at ₹82.12 per litre, making it approximately ₹20 cheaper than regular E20 petrol. While this price difference suggests potential savings, consumers should be aware of the fuel efficiency implications. E85, which consists of 85% ethanol and 15% petrol, typically delivers 20-30% lower fuel efficiency than petrol due to ethanol's lower calorific value. For instance, a motorcycle that achieves 50 kmpl on petrol may only reach 40-42 kmpl on E85. This reduction in mileage does not necessarily mean higher running costs, particularly for daily commuters if the price gap remains significant. However, vehicle compatibility poses a challenge, as only a few models, such as the Hero MotoCorp Flex Fuel motorcycles and Suzuki's Gixxer SF 250, can utilize E85. The Indian government aims to expand E85 infrastructure significantly, targeting 500 dispensing stations by the end of 2026 and nearly 5,000 by 2027, to support this new fuel option.
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The introduction of E85 fuel may lower fuel costs for some consumers, but the reduced efficiency could offset savings for others.
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