Vibha SharmaNew Delhi, July 30 -- Amid the debate over ethanol-blended fuel, the government on Thursday said E20 offers a "higher-octane rating, superior anti-knock characteristics, cleaner combustion and smoother engine performance."More than 20 crore two-wheelers and over 3 crore petrol cars have been operating on ethanol-blended fuel without any verified evidence of widespread engine failure or vehicle breakdown attributable to ethanol blending, Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari told the Lok Sabha in a written reply.

Gadkari said E20 improves acceleration and ride quality while reducing carbon emissions. "Laboratory studies, field validation and real-world operating experience have not established any adverse impact ...