SIAM clarifies E20 fuel quality reports

The Automotive industry in India (SIAM) issued a clarification on August 5, 2026, regarding media reports that cited selective excerpts from a SIAM communication focusing on chloride and sulphur content in E20 ethanol-blended petrol. SIAM stated that the communication was part of routine technical deliberations among stakeholders, including oil marketing companies (OMCs), auto OEMs, and testing agencies. It emphasized that fuel quality testing under the regulatory framework covers more than 150 parameters and is conducted by OMCs. SIAM noted that some figures quoted in the communication require authentication through comprehensive data collection and consultation with member OEMs, and it has withdrawn the earlier communication. The India — Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) has instituted 3ppm guidelines for chloride and sulphur in ethanol as a precautionary measure. OMCs have implemented water ingress testing 8-12 times daily at over 87,000 outlets and after rainfall. SIAM reiterated its full support for the government's E20 initiative, citing energy security benefits, and assured there is no cause for concern. The clarification follows reports that SIAM had flagged rising chloride contamination and moisture levels, linking them to higher replacement rates of fuel injectors, fuel pumps, and EGR valves, and recommending stricter chloride limits under India — Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) specifications. The India — Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas responded that fuel quality is regularly monitored and testing protocols have been strengthened, with over 2,000 fuel samples tested and only two cases of chloride contamination detected.