Government Push for E85 ethanol fuel in India

The Indian government is developing a policy framework to support the introduction of E85 ethanol-blended fuel. Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri announced that E85 fuel will be priced much lower than regular petrol. He made this statement during the launch event for Hero MotoCorp’s flex-fuel versions of the Splendor and HF Deluxe motorcycles.

Key Highlights

• Government developing a policy framework to support the E85 ethanol fuel rollout in India.
• E85 fuel is to be priced significantly below regular petrol for compliant vehicles.
• Hero MotoCorp launches flex-fuel Splendor and HF Deluxe motorcycles at the event.

Government Policy and Pricing Plans

Minister Puri stated that E85 fuel will be available for vehicles designed to use this blend. He emphasized that the price of E85 will be substantially less than that of normal petrol. The government is currently reviewing policies to encourage the adoption of E85 fuel and to make it more affordable for consumers.

Puri also mentioned that the government is actively considering measures to support the rollout of E85. He indicated that more information about the pricing structure could be released soon. The policy aims to promote cleaner fuel alternatives and reduce dependence on traditional fossil fuels.

Industry Adoption and Flex-Fuel Vehicles

The announcement came at the launch of Hero MotoCorp’s flex-fuel motorcycles, specifically the Splendor and HF Deluxe models. These motorcycles are designed to run on E85 fuel, which contains up to 85 percent ethanol. The move signals growing industry interest in alternative fuels and supports the government’s efforts to diversify India’s energy sources.

Flex-fuel vehicles can operate on a range of ethanol-petrol blends, offering flexibility for consumers. The introduction of E85-compatible models by major manufacturers like Hero MotoCorp could accelerate market adoption if supportive policies are implemented.

Future Developments

The government’s focus on E85 forms part of a broader strategy to increase the use of biofuels in India. Officials expect that new policies will make E85 more accessible and affordable, encouraging more manufacturers to produce compatible vehicles. Further announcements regarding pricing and policy details are anticipated in the near future.

A 2026 Bentley Flying Spur S was also present at the event, highlighting the range of vehicles that could potentially benefit from alternative fuel options in the future.

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Wagon R Flex Fuel debuts as India’s first mass-market ethanol-ready car

CarBike 360 Says

​A clear, phased E85 policy could accelerate India’s shift to homegrown fuels, strengthen rural incomes, and reduce import dependence while keeping emissions in check. Success will hinge on coordinated action across ministries, automakers, and fuel retailers, plus sensible fiscal incentives and sustainability safeguards to ensure E85 is affordable, scalable, and environmentally responsible for India’s long-term energy transition.