New CAFE rules on way, automakers speed up flex fuel vehicle devpt
This means the new CAFE 3 framework, due in April 2027, will give flex fuel vehicles that run on petrol-ethanol blends the same regulatory benefits as EVs. Flex fuel refers to petrol mixed with ethanol anywhere between 20% and 100%, which is derived from the fermentation of sugars and starches found in plants.
Gadkari's remarks follow a meeting he held last year with representatives of Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) in which he asked automakers to look into ways of making these flex fuel vehicles more acceptable to the public, citing Brazil's successful integration of flex fuels and biofuels in its transportation.
You Can Also Check:
Kolkata AQI
|
Weather in Kolkata
|
Bank Holidays in Kolkata
|
Public Holidays in Kolkata
During the Bharat Mobility Show 2025, automakers displayed flex cars — Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Toyota Hycross, Hyundai Creta, Tata Punch and Mahindra XUV 3XO — that can run on up to 85-100% ethanol.
While ethanol is less expensive than petrol, there is a downside to the fuel: it delivers less efficiency or mileage by 30% than pure petrol. Toyota plans to overcome this disadvantage by electrifying the flex fuel vehicle using strong hybrid technology.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
See Results for Car Selling Websites
https://knowingtower.com
Search Now
Undo
"Strong hybrid cars with petrol engines are usually 40% to 50% more fuel efficient than petrol-only vehicles. So, the loss in efficiency from E100 will be more than compensated by the improved efficiency of a strong hybrid with less carbon footprint," said TKM senior VP & director (technical & purchase) Sudeep S Dalvi, who expects the rollout of flex fuel vehicles to be aligned with govt policies and regulations.
Maruti Suzuki has in its 2030 product plan said 25% of its vehicles will be compatible with ethanol-blended fuel E20, while another 25% will be hybrid electric vehicles (HEV). At present, it has two HEV products in its portfolio: the Grand Vitara and Invicto, which use Toyota's strong hybrid technology.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
8 hours ago
- Time of India
Government to introduce new bill to enhance CE industry's competitiveness: Road transport minister
NEW DELHI: Green fuels and advanced technologies such as electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles are not just environmentally responsible but also financially advantageous, said Nitin Gadkari , Minister for Road Transport and Highways, underscoring the critical role of sustainability in the construction equipment (CE) industry's growth. Speaking at The Indian Construction Equipment Manufacturers' Association (ICEMA) Annual Session 2025 in New Delhi, Gadkari forecasted a robust global demand if the CE sector embraces sustainability, quality, and innovation. The construction equipment industry witnessed 3% growth in FY25, with equipment sales reaching 1,40,191 units while exports have grown by 10%. 'If the CE industry truly commits to sustainable practices and innovation, global demand will rise significantly,' he added. Gadkari emphasized on the critical need for technological advancement and sustainability in construction equipment. He reiterated the government's zero-tolerance stance on quality lapses, 'We are very strict about quality, whether it's roads or equipment. Anyone compromising quality will be held accountable.' He also urged the CE industry to invest in high-capacity machinery for tunneling and pre-cast construction, 'We are building tunnels worth ₹3 lakh crore, but machinery availability remains a bottleneck. European nations have advanced tunnel boring equipment, we need to adapt such machines for Indian conditions. Pre-cast is now mandatory in many projects, requiring specialized machinery. I urge your industry to step up in these areas.' The minister assured industry members that policy support is forthcoming, 'We are bringing a new bill in the next Parliament session to address the challenges the CE industry is facing in competing with global players. Your concerns have been heard, and they will be addressed.' V. Vivekanand, president, ICEMA and managing director of Caterpillar India , said, 'To build a safer, more efficient future, we must make skilling mandatory for all operators. It's not just about complianceiit's about improving quality, minimizing risk, and unlocking long-term productivity."
Time of India
8 hours ago
- Time of India
Weavers' Service Centre launches coffee table book
Nagpur: The Weavers' Service Centre, Nagpur, under Ministry of Textiles, officially launched the coffee table book 'Threaded Tales of Vidarbha' in association with FDCI in Delhi. The book was unveiled by Union minister Nitin Gadkari, alongside dignitaries including Mahadev Paunikar, Sandeep Thubrikar (DC Handloom), former MP Ajay Sancheti, ex-Union minister Shahnawaz Hussain, Dr M Beena, and designer Shruti Sancheti. The publication documents the distinctive handloom traditions and motifs of the Vidarbha region, with a focus on preserving its textile legacy. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Weavers' Service Centre and designer Shruti Sancheti, who has played a key role in conceptualising and curating the visual and cultural documentation. The book features original research, photographs, and testimonies from local weavers who have kept the traditions of Vidarbha alive for generations. Speaking on the occasion, Gadkari conveyed his appreciation through a message. He noted, "This book is a valuable effort to document and showcase the beauty of Vidarbha's handwoven textiles, intricate designs, and traditional motifs to a wider audiencе." Reflecting on her involvement, Shruti Sancheti remarked, "Preserving these timeless craft traditions through this book is our way of fostering a deeper appreciation for the artistry and stories woven into every thread." The book features textiles known for their understated elegance, including tussar silk and fine cotton sarees, with design elements rooted in local customs. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and s ilver prices in your area.
Time of India
9 hours ago
- Time of India
NIT-Owned Road in Ruins as PWD Delays Work, NMC Steps In with Temporary Fixes
1 2 Nagpur: The key road connecting Awasthi Square to Katol Bypass Ring Road via Zingabai Takli remains in a hazardous state, with potholes, waterlogging, and no streetlights — despite being under the watch of three government agencies: the Public Works Department (PWD), Nagpur Improvement Trust (NIT), and Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC). With no action from either PWD or NIT, the NMC — which technically doesn't own the road — stepped in after persistent TOI coverage and citizen complaints. Initially, the civic body filled potholes with gravel and sand, which washed away in the rain. It later deployed tar and gravel and cleared drainage points to offer some temporary relief. However, the stretch continues to endanger two-wheeler riders, especially near ESAF Bank. Though Union Minister Nitin Gadkari sanctioned Rs2.38 crore under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) in 2022-23 to construct a cement road between Zenda Chowk and Awasthi Square, only 200 metres — up to Purushottam Super Market — has received final sanction. The most damaged section remains stuck in red tape. PWD officials said the proposal has been sent and they are hopeful of a sanction by December. Newly posted PWD engineer Laxmikant Raulkar has promised to review the file. NIT engineer Pankaj Ambhorkar declined comment, citing protocol. "The waterlogged potholes and lack of streetlights make daily travel a gamble," said Zingabai Takli resident Piyush Janbandhu. The delay exposes the pitfalls of fractured governance and overlapping agency control. Unless the full project is sanctioned and a single agency takes charge, residents will remain caught between potholes, poor planning, and bureaucratic indifference. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and s ilver prices in your area.
