Way Cleared for E100 Fuel Cars: Government Amends Motor Vehicle Rules to Allow E100 Along with E85
The government has amended the Central Motor Vehicles Rules to provide for E100 fuel along with E85. This is seen as an important step for carmakers preparing to launch E100 models.
Please note: cars designed for E20 or regular petrol cannot use E85/E100. These fuels are only for specially designed and certified vehicles.
At a Glance: Key Points
- The Central Motor Vehicles Rules have been amended to add E100 alongside E85.
- An important step for carmakers preparing E100 models.
- E85/E100 cannot be used in cars meant for E20 or regular petrol.
- Petrol blends above E20 and up to E100 can be used only in specially designed and certified vehicles.
- The new rules are an important push for flex-fuel vehicles.
Which Fuel for Which Vehicle
| Vehicle type | Fuel |
|---|---|
| Regular petrol / E20 cars | Regular petrol or E20; not E85/E100 |
| Specially designed and certified (flex-fuel) vehicles | Ethanol blends above E20, up to E100 |
Background: What Was Proposed Earlier
- As per news reports, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways issued a draft in April 2026 and invited comments.
- The draft proposed replacing references to E85 with ‘E85 or E100’, and also covered B100 biodiesel and a ‘Hydrogen + CNG’ classification.
- E20 petrol has already been rolled out in India, and the government wants to raise ethanol blending to cut import dependence.
What It Means for Ordinary Vehicle Owners
- No change is needed in your current petrol car for now.
- When E100 vehicles arrive, they will need separate fuel and supporting facilities at pumps.
- While buying a new car, check whether it is certified for E20, E85 or E100.
Important Links
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does E100 mean?
A fuel that is almost entirely ethanol.
Can I put E100 in my current car?
No. E85/E100 cannot be used in cars meant for E20 or regular petrol.
Which vehicles can run on E100?
Only specially designed and certified vehicles, i.e. flex-fuel vehicles.
What is the benefit of this change?
It promotes flex-fuel vehicles and is expected to help reduce fuel import dependence.
Will petrol pumps start selling E100 now?
This is a rules provision; availability at pumps will be decided separately.
Note: This is based on news reports and public government information. Dates, amounts and rules can change, so please confirm with the official website or the concerned office before acting. Emitrawala.com is not a government website.
