A significant stride toward minimizing carbon dioxide emissions and enhancing vehicle fuel efficiency was achieved as Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the world’s inaugural 100 percent Ethanol-fueled car in New Delhi.
This historic launch introduces the world’s first electrified flex-fuel vehicle compliant with BS-VI (Stage-II) standards, capable of running entirely on ethanol-based fuel. Minister Gadkari hailed this milestone as pivotal, stressing the urgency of implementing sustainable and rigorous measures to combat pollution stemming from vehicular emissions. Recognizing the nation’s imperative to curtail oil imports and achieve self-reliance, he underscored the importance of reducing dependence on conventional fuel sources. Gadkari further emphasized the transformative potential of ethanol-blended fuel, projecting growth in the agricultural sector and the creation of numerous employment opportunities.
Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri shared that the nation’s implementation of 20 percent ethanol blending in petrol would yield an annual savings of 35 thousand crore rupees in import expenditures. Remarkably, India surpassed the target of achieving 10 percent ethanol blending five months ahead of the 2022 schedule. Puri also unveiled aspirations to establish an alliance for International Biofuel in a bid to foster global collaboration.
Union Minister Mahendra Nath Pandey highlighted the tangible benefits arising from ethanol blending, with farmers reaping 82 thousand crore rupees in revenue and a consequential reduction in the country’s import bill. The flex fuel technology is a groundbreaking concept enabling engines to operate on ethanol-blended petrol or gasoline beyond the 20 percent threshold. This innovation serves the dual purpose of diminishing carbon emissions and advancing sustainable mobility, thereby diminishing the nation’s reliance on traditional fuel sources.
The introduction of the world’s inaugural 100 percent Ethanol-fueled car by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari holds immense promise for a cleaner and greener future. As India pioneers advancements in alternative fuels, the nation propels toward a future marked by reduced environmental impact and a greater degree of energy self-sufficiency.