Mercedes-Benz says its BS VI petrol vehicles are E20-compatible amid mileage drop row
Mercedes-Benz says all BS VI petrol vehicles are compatible with E20 fuel as debate over mileage loss continues. The Centre says E20 may reduce fuel economy by 3-5 per cent
Amid the ongoing debate over alleged drop in mileage and engine damage especially in older vehicles due to the use of E20 petrol and the Centre’s partial denial of the allegations raised by a section of vehicle owners, luxury vehicle maker Mercedes-Benz has said that all of its petrol BS VI vehicles are “materially compatible” with fuel blend.
The automobile manufacturer further stated that the related vehicles are certified by relevant authorities adding that customer safety and reliability of its vehicles are its top priority.
Mercedes issues clarification
“At Mercedes-Benz, customer safety, vehicle reliability and performance are of paramount importance to us. All Mercedes-Benz petrol BS VI vehicles are materially compatible with E20 fuel and certified accordingly by relevant authorities,” stated the company in a statement on X on Sunday (July 12) titled ‘Customer Advisory.
It also expressed its commitment to “sustainable mobility.” “We are happy to support customers for any technical queries. Mercedes-Benz remains committed to sustainable mobility,” it added.
Vlogger flags mileage drop
The company’s statement came within hours after a popular vlogger Sourav Joshi in a post on X alleged that his luxury Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV’s mileage has sharply dropped from an estimated 16-17 kmpl down to a shocking 5 kmpl.
Also Read: Policy over choice? Experts flag consumer risks in E20 fuel rollout | AI With Sanket
Last Friday (July 10), the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas admitted in an FAQ that the use of E20 may result in a 3-5 per cent drop in mileage adding that it is only “one parameter”.
Centre acknowledges impact
The ministry stated that "some vehicles may experience a 3 to 5 per cent reduction in fuel economy", while stressing that mileage is influenced by several other factors as well.
Also Read: E20 petrol row: India denies Bhutan export claim, documents tell different story
According to the ministry, "real world mileage depends more on driving habits, tyre pressure, servicing, and air conditioner use than fuel type," adding that "mileage is only one part of the picture."
Benefits highlighted
It maintained that the lower fuel economy should be viewed alongside the fuel's other benefits, including improved engine performance and reduced emissions.
The FAQ stated that E20 offers a higher effective octane rating, "superior anti-knock characteristics", faster combustion, smoother acceleration and cleaner engine operation.
It also claimed that the ethanol-blended fuel produces significantly lower particulate emissions and can reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by nearly 40 per cent. The ministry argued that these advantages outweigh the limited reduction in mileage reported in some vehicles.