Every time you stop your car at a petrol pump, the fast moving needle of the meter changes not only the tank but also the account of your pocket. The effect of fluctuations in crude oil prices in the international market directly reaches the common man. Now, to get out of this instability, the government is preparing to take a big and far-reaching step, rapidly promoting flex-fuel vehicles and E85 fuel in the country.

Effect of global tension, why petrol prices become a concern

The ongoing geopolitical tensions in the world, especially in West Asia, are continuously affecting crude oil prices. Many times this price has crossed $100 per barrel. Increasing tension on important sea routes like the Strait of Hormuz poses a threat to the supply chain. This is the reason why in an import dependent country like India, the prices of petrol and diesel change rapidly, the effect of which is visible from transportation expenses to everyday inflation.

What is E85, how will it change the fuel game?

The E85 fuel that the government is now focusing on contains 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent petrol. It is considered to be a more indigenous and less expensive option than traditional petrol. Earlier the government had implemented E20 i.e. 20 percent ethanol blending, but during that time some consumers had complained about the effect on mileage and engine. Now the new strategy focuses on vehicles that will be specifically designed for high ethanol fuel.

Why are flex-fuel vehicles special?

Flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) are vehicles whose engines are designed to run on a mixture of petrol and ethanol in different proportions. In these vehicles, the engine adjusts itself according to the fuel, which has less impact on performance and mileage. This is the reason why they are being considered as future technology, which can give a new path to India's energy needs.

Government's preparations intensified, when will these vehicles come on the road?

Work is going on rapidly at the central level to get this project off the ground. High-level meetings are underway within the Petroleum Ministry, where experts, automobile companies and policy makers are working together to prepare a roadmap. The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers and government oil companies have an important role in this process. On the basis of the recommendations prepared by the working group, major decisions can be taken in the coming times.

Not just cheap fuel, strategic change

The aim of the government is not only to provide a cheaper alternative to petrol, but also to protect the country from the shocks of the global oil market. India imports a large part of its needs from abroad, due to which every international crisis affects its economy. Promoting ethanol based fuel will also boost agro-based production in the country and reduce dependence on imports. This step is also being considered an important initiative in the direction of 'self-reliant India'.

The shape of things to come

If this plan is implemented rapidly, then in the coming years, such vehicles can be seen on Indian roads, which will not run on expensive petrol, but on ethanol produced in the country. This change can prove to be a big gamechanger not just for fuel, but for the entire economy and environment.