Pure ethanol (E100) is now legal as a vehicle fuel in India: what it means for drivers and mechanics
27 October 2026 · 2 min read · HireHo
Based on Rushlane's report of 14 June 2026. the official text was not available to us. Summarised in our own words.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said that the rules allowing E100, which is 100% ethanol, as an automotive fuel were officially signed and approved. He said he signed the file on the evening of Friday, 12 June 2026. Rushlane reported the news on 14 June. The report describes the changes as amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules and does not include the official text.
What the rules do
They legally allow pure ethanol to be sold as fuel and let carmakers build vehicles made for it. The proposed changes also support E85, B100 biodiesel and hydrogen-CNG blends. Toyota, Suzuki, Hyundai and MG are expected to launch E100-compatible vehicles, and Gadkari spoke of about a month and a half. Hero has launched flex-fuel Splendor+ and HF Deluxe motorcycles running on E85.
What it means for drivers
Do not put ethanol in a vehicle that is not made for it. The report notes that some owner's manuals say not to use fuel above 10% ethanol, and that automakers and regulators may need to explain compatibility and warranty. E100 vehicles need specially calibrated engines, fuel systems and materials.
What it means for mechanics
Ethanol absorbs moisture and is corrosive, so storage, fuel lines and seals matter more. Oil companies are expected to set up E100 pumps slowly, starting in key cities and farm regions. Mechanics who learn about flex-fuel systems may find new work as such vehicles arrive. This last point is our reading, not the source's.