The Indian government is moving towards a revolutionary change to strengthen the country's fuel security and reduce pollution. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has issued a draft notification under the Motor Vehicles Act on 27 April 2026. According to this proposal, now new standards will be set for fuels containing high-blend (higher mixture) of ethanol and biodiesel in the country, not just petrol.
What is the government's new proposal?
The government has prepared to amend the Central Motor Vehicle Rules-1989. The main objective of this draft notification is to change the classification of fuel:
New name for petrol: Till now petrol was known as E10/E, which will now be changed to E10/E20.
High Ethanol Blend: The proposal includes fuels like E85 and E100. This means that in the future, vehicles will be able to run on 100% ethanol.
Biodiesel Update: There is a proposal to increase the biodiesel blend limit for diesel vehicles from B10 to B100.
Last year's target of E20 was met.
India has successfully achieved its earlier target of 20% ethanol blend (E20) in petrol. Now the government wants to reach E25, E27 and E100. This will save billions of rupees spent on crude oil imports and farmers will benefit financially through ethanol production.
Changes in Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)
The government has also proposed a major change for commercial vehicles. The gross vehicle weight limit will be increased from 3000 kg to 3500 kg. This change will bring in new emission norms for small trucks and loading tempos. In addition, the technical terms related to HCNG (hydrogen blended CNG) have also been amended.
Implementation will be gradual.
These changes will not be implemented all at once but in phases. E20 fuel will be generally available across the country, while options like E85 and E100 will be introduced for vehicles specifically equipped with 'flex-fuel engine' technology. The draft is currently open for public comment, based on which the government will issue a final notification.
