Kejriwal claims nine auto companies privately flagged risks of E20 for older vehicles; alleges pressure by Centre

Kejriwal Claims Nine Auto Companies Warned About E20 Fuel Risks

Theindiapostdaily.com – AAP National convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday made a significant claim regarding the implementation of E20 fuel in India. Kejriwal claims nine auto companies privately informed him that using E20 petrol in vehicles manufactured before 2023 could pose serious risks. During a press conference, the former Delhi chief minister revealed that he had received verbal confirmations from officials of nine automobile manufacturers about potential compatibility issues.

Kejriwal’s Letter to Auto Manufacturers

In his effort to gather comprehensive information, Kejriwal claims nine auto companies have shared their concerns about the new fuel policy. He wrote to 29 auto manufacturers seeking detailed clarification on whether E20 fuel can safely be used in vehicles manufactured before 2023. Additionally, he asked these companies whether they would bear repair costs or compensate customers if mileage drops due to E20 usage. Despite sending letters to all manufacturers, Kejriwal noted that none of them responded in writing to his queries.

Kejriwal explained his concerns during the press conference, stating that the Modi government has employed strong-arm tactics to push E20 petrol adoption. He mentioned that his letter covered motorcycles, scooters, petrol-powered two-wheelers, four-wheelers, cars, and SUVs manufactured in India. The former Delhi CM emphasized that he wanted clear statements regarding vehicle compatibility and financial responsibility for potential damages.

“I had detailed phone conversations with officials from nine of these companies. According to them, the Modi government is openly threatening manufacturers,” Kejriwal stated, as reported by PTI.

Technical Concerns and Government Pressure

According to Kejriwal, the nine auto companies he spoke with raised several technical concerns about E20 fuel. He claimed that these manufacturers warned about potential engine damage and fuel train system issues in older vehicles. Furthermore, Kejriwal said the companies mentioned that E20 could significantly reduce fuel efficiency in vehicles manufactured before 2023.

The AAP chief also highlighted that these auto companies alleged receiving threats from the central government. Kejriwal claimed that manufacturers were warned about facing consequences if they publicly disclosed the risks associated with E20 fuel. This alleged pressure from the Centre has become a central point of contention in the ongoing debate about fuel policy implementation.

Kejriwal further estimated that approximately 30 crore vehicles could be affected by this policy. This includes 22 crore two-wheelers and eight crore four-wheelers manufactured before 2023. The former Delhi CM questioned the rationale behind promoting E20 fuel, pointing out that ethanol is more expensive than petrol and offers lower mileage due to its reduced calorific value.

Additionally, Kejriwal argued that the new fuel policy would not necessarily benefit farmers as claimed by the government. With inputs from PTI, this development adds another layer to the political discourse surrounding India’s transition to alternative fuels and the concerns raised by the automotive industry.