Maruti Suzuki to Offer E20 Upgrade Kits for Older Models Amid India’s Ethanol Fuel Transition

In a significant move aimed at easing the transition to greener fuels, Maruti Suzuki is preparing to launch E20-compliant upgrade kits for its older vehicles. 

The development comes as India continues its phased rollout of E20 petrol, a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% gasoline, under the country’s broader strategy to reduce crude oil imports and lower vehicular emissions.

While all Maruti Suzuki vehicles manufactured from April 2023 onward are factory-fitted to handle E20 fuel, the majority of cars currently on Indian roads were designed for lower ethanol blends. This has raised concerns among owners of older models about the long-term impact of E20 on fuel system components, including the risk of corrosion, material degradation, and reduced mileage.

Addressing these concerns, Maruti Suzuki is set to introduce retrofit upgrade kits designed specifically for older vehicles, with compatibility reportedly extending to models manufactured up to 10–15 years ago. The initiative is expected to benefit millions of Maruti Suzuki owners, ensuring continued performance and reliability even with the adoption of the higher ethanol blend.

The E20 upgrade kits will likely include ethanol-resistant components such as reinforced fuel lines, seals, and gaskets, which are essential for protecting engine systems against ethanol-induced wear. These parts are designed to prevent issues arising from ethanol’s corrosive nature, ensuring vehicles remain both safe and efficient to operate.

Pricing for the kits is expected to remain affordable, with estimated costs ranging between ₹4,000 and ₹6,000. Official pricing and installation details are anticipated to be announced shortly. The kits will be available through Maruti Suzuki’s authorized service network across the country.

This initiative reinforces Maruti Suzuki’s commitment to customer support and environmental responsibility. By proactively offering a solution for existing vehicle owners, the company is facilitating a smoother transition to alternative fuels without compromising on vehicle longevity or safety.

While there has been a debate regarding the myths and facts of E20 fuel, industry experts view this move as a potential benchmark, anticipating that other automotive manufacturers may follow suit with similar retrofit solutions. With India targeting nationwide E20 adoption in the near future, such measures are seen as critical for maintaining consumer confidence and minimizing disruption.

Further details, including model eligibility and service rollout dates, are expected to be released by Maruti Suzuki in the coming weeks.