New Delhi, June 6, 2026. India has taken a major step towards clean energy and reducing dependence on imported crude oil by launching E85 flex fuel. The first pump opened on Pusa Road in Delhi, and this new fuel is made from a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% petrol. Its price has been set at ₹82.12 per liter in Delhi, which is about ₹20 per liter cheaper than the current E20 petrol.
The first E85 fuel dispensing station in the country was inaugurated in Delhi. The government aims to promote the use of ethanol-based fuels and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. However, E85 fuel can only be used in flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs). It is considered unsafe to fill it in regular petrol cars and bikes, as it requires specially designed engines and fuel systems.
The government and oil companies have planned to make E85 available at about 50 petrol pumps in the first phase, including Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur. It will be expanded across the country in the coming time. Experts believe that E85 will also benefit farmers, as ethanol is produced from sugarcane, corn, and other agricultural products. This will strengthen the rural economy and also save foreign exchange.
Key points about E85 flex fuel
- Price: ₹82.12 per liter
- Composition: 85% ethanol + 15% petrol
- ₹20 cheaper than E20 petrol
- Suitable only for flex-fuel vehicles
- Available at select city petrol pumps in the first phase
- Important step towards reducing oil imports and pollution