India Proposes New Emission Rules to Support Higher Ethanol and Biodiesel Blends

India has reached its target of 20 percent ethanol blending (E20) in petrol by 2025. The government now plans to increase ethanol blending further to reduce reliance on imported petroleum products.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has released a draft notification proposing amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. These changes aim to formally recognize higher ethanol-blended fuels such as E85 and E100 under India's emission testing and certification framework.

Key Highlights

• India achieved 20 percent ethanol blending in petrol by 2025
• Draft rules propose regulatory recognition for E85 and E100 fuels
• Biodiesel references updated from B10 to B100 in emission standards
• Technical corrections include revising the HCNG fuel definition
• Public comments on the draft notification are open for 30 days

Proposed Amendments to Fuel Standards

The draft notification suggests replacing existing references to E85 with E85 or E100 in several column headings under Table 2. This change would allow regulatory approval for vehicles designed to operate on nearly pure ethanol. The ministry also proposes updating gasoline fuel references by replacing E10/E with E10/E20. This reflects India's transition toward higher ethanol blends in petrol.

In addition, the draft rules recommend revising biodiesel references by replacing B10 with B100 under Table 2. This signals India's intention to align with higher biodiesel blend usage. These updates are part of a broader strategy to support alternative fuels and reduce emissions from vehicles.

Technical Corrections and Public Consultation

MoRTH has also proposed technical corrections in the draft notification. One key change is revising the definition of HCNG from Hydrogen+CN to Hydrogen+CNG. This adjustment clarifies the composition of hydrogen-enriched compressed natural gas used in vehicles.

The draft notification was published in the Gazette of India on April 27, 2026. It proposes amendments under Rule 115, which covers emission standards and testing requirements. The ministry has invited objections and suggestions from the public. Comments can be sent to the Additional Secretary (MVL, Transport & Road Safety), Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. The consultation period is open for 30 days from the date of publication. After this period, the government will review feedback and make a final decision on the proposed changes.

Implications for Vehicle Manufacturers

If adopted, these amendments will require vehicle manufacturers to comply with new emission testing and certification standards for higher ethanol and biodiesel blends. The changes support India's ongoing efforts to promote cleaner fuels and reduce environmental impact from the transport sector.

Also Read: German Petrol Price Controls Raise Costs Despite Transparency Gains, Study Finds

CarBike 360 Says

India’s proposed emission rules mark an important shift in its clean-fuel strategy, moving the country beyond E20 toward wider use of ethanol and biodiesel blends. If implemented effectively, the new norms could support lower oil imports, cleaner transport, and stronger domestic biofuel demand. The final framework will matter not just for fuel suppliers, but also for vehicle compatibility, consumer confidence, and the pace of India’s transition to greener mobility.