Arvind Kejriwal, AAP National Convenor, has appealed to the public to stop buying petrol and diesel vehicles until the central government clarifies the use and safety of E20 fuel. These concerns come as the ethanol-blended petrol is being rolled out in India.
Kejriwal questioned the government's preparedness for introducing E20 fuel, alleging that adequate testing had not been conducted before its implementation.
"Until such a time, the government makes its intention clear, I appeal to the people to stop buying petrol and diesel vehicles. The government did not conduct any testing for E20 fuel," Kejriwal said.
The AAP chief said E20 fuel should be transparent and consumers should be aware before they buy products. Millions of vehicle owners could be negatively affected by the new fuel blend if it’s a performance or maintenance issue, he said.
E20 fuel is a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol. The Centre has been promoting ethanol blending as part of its wider strategy to reduce India's dependence on imported crude oil, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and support domestic sugarcane farmers through increased ethanol production.
Kejriwal alleged that the government has not properly communicated whether existing petrol vehicles are compatible with the higher ethanol blend. To him, vehicle buyers should not be left at the mercy of E20 fuel manufacturers regarding the long-term effects on vehicle durability, mileage, and maintenance costs.
#WATCH | Delhi | On E20 fuel, AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal says, "Till such a time, the government makes its intention clear, I appeal to the people to stop buying petrol and diesel vehicles. The government did not conduct any testing for E20 fuel." pic.twitter.com/OlfKCPzBDb
— ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2026
The issue has divided consumers, car manufacturers, and policymakers. E20-compatible cars are already available from many of the big car manufacturers, and others have said customers should verify compatibility and use higher ethanol blends frequently. Industry experts also have said older vehicles are not always ready to switch to E20.
The Union Government has maintained that ethanol blending is a critical part of India's clean energy transition and has been implementing the policy in phases. Car manufacturers have been working to ensure new cars comply with E20 fuel standards, officials said.
Kejriwal's words will likely drive the political debate about India's fuel policy more sharply, particularly for the public, and hence the political discussion around India’s fuel policy will be fueled by the need for clarity on vehicle compatibility and long-term operational costs.
The AAP leader called on the Centre to explain its roadmap clearly and reassure the public about testing standards, safety measures, and the impact of E20 fuel on existing vehicles. People should therefore consider their purchasing decisions carefully until then, he said.
The comments add to the national conversation on sustainable fuels that is based on environmental concerns and consumer confidence and car safety.
