India, July 4 -- Claims that E20 (20% ethanol-blended petrol) is causing widespread damage to vehicles are not backed by evidence, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) said on Friday, urging motorists to rely on authorised service centres rather than unverified social media posts.

Speaking at ARAI's headquarters in Pune, director Reji Mathai on Saturday said authorised service centres of automobile manufacturers have not reported any significant increase in serious complaints linked to E20 fuel.

"We urge customers facing any issues with their vehicles to approach authorised dealers for inspection rather than relying on unverified claims circulating on social media," Mathai said.

He said the rollout of E20 fuel followed e...