The upcoming model is expected to support high ethanol fuel blends, possibly up to E100, which means the car can run on 100 percent ethanol fuel. At present, there is no flex-fuel four-wheeler available for sale in India. This launch could become an important step toward cleaner and greener mobility in the country.
Last year, Maruti Suzuki had showcased the flex-fuel version of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx at the Japan Mobility Show 2025 in Tokyo. That model was compatible with E85 fuel, which contains 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent petrol. However, the new model expected to debut in India could support even higher ethanol content, possibly reaching E100 capability.
Flex-fuel vehicles need specially designed engines and fuel systems because ethanol behaves differently from normal petrol. Ethanol absorbs more moisture and requires changes in the fuel storage, delivery system, and engine components to ensure smooth performance and durability.
According to Gadkari, increasing ethanol usage will help India reduce pollution, lower fuel costs, and decrease dependency on crude oil imports. Currently, India imports nearly 87 percent of its crude oil needs, making the country vulnerable to global fuel price fluctuations.
The minister also mentioned that companies like Toyota, Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, and Suzuki have already showcased flex-fuel vehicles in India. Flex-fuel two-wheelers from Honda and Suzuki are also entering the market.
India has already introduced E20 petrol, and the government is preparing future fuel standards like E22, E25, E27, and E30 as part of its ethanol blending roadmap. The launch of Maruti’s E100 flex-fuel vehicle could mark a major milestone in India’s green fuel journey.