Overview
- The Bureau of Indian Standards published IS 19850:2026 in the Gazette, effective May 15, 2026, formally defining specifications for E22, E25, E27 and E30 petrol blends.
- The standard sets technical and quality limits for anhydrous ethanol blends, including composition, impurity caps, vapour pressure, corrosion resistance and test methods that oil firms and automakers must follow.
- The petroleum ministry has asked the Automotive Research Association of India to run detailed durability and performance tests on E25 using vehicles certified for E10 and E20 to judge effects on mileage, engine life and emissions.
- The All India Distillers' Association welcomed the move, saying E25 could absorb current surplus ethanol and help the sugar and distillery sectors, but fuel distributors and makers still face hardware, dispensing and calibration work.
- Officials have not mandated immediate nationwide sales; next steps include long‑run vehicle trials, pump and supply‑chain upgrades, and separate draft rules under consideration to recognise higher flex fuels such as E85 and E100.