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Nitin Gadkari Unveils Historic 100% Ethanol-Powered Car
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister, Nitin Gadkari, made history on Tuesday by unveiling the world’s very first 100% ethanol-powered car, a significant leap forward in the pursuit of energy sustainability and reducing oil imports. The groundbreaking vehicle, a variant of Toyota’s Innova HyCross, marks a milestone as the world’s premier BS-VI (Stage-II) electrified flex-fuel automobile.
Unlike conventional cars, this innovative marvel is a flexible fuel vehicle (FFV), boasting an internal combustion engine with the capability to operate on petrol, as well as any blend of petrol and ethanol. Traditionally, the permissible ethanol blending level has been capped at around 83%, but this pioneering model defies the norm by running solely on 100% ethanol.
One of the paramount advantages of this revolutionary step is its potential to greatly diminish India’s reliance on oil imports, a move that could substantially conserve foreign exchange. Minister Gadkari voiced this sentiment during the Mint Sustainability Summit, articulating the need to transform India into a self-reliant nation, and the urgency to truncate the enormous economic loss of approximately ₹16 lakh crore incurred through oil imports.
The advent of vehicles powered by alternative and eco-friendly fuels is not only desirable but indispensable for the holistic progress of sustainable development. While considerable strides have been taken in the realm of sustainability, Minister Gadkari emphasized the necessity for even more robust initiatives. He underscored the pressing concerns of pollution, stressing the pivotal role of preserving ecology and the environment. The mitigation of air and water pollution, coupled with the enhancement of river water quality, emerged as critical challenges that demand immediate attention.
This momentous revelation is not Minister Gadkari’s first foray into promoting green energy. In the preceding year, he introduced the Toyota Mirai EV, a hydrogen-powered vehicle, aimed at catalyzing the adoption of alternative energy sources and green fuels.
What is Ethanol and How it is processed
At the heart of this technological marvel lies ethanol, a biofuel with the chemical formula C2H5OH. This renewable fuel is generated through the natural fermentation of sugar, primarily sourced from sugarcane in India. Nonetheless, its production can also be derived from other organic materials, including various food grains.
The Indian government has already initiated the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme, a visionary endeavor aimed at blending ethanol with petrol to curtail the consumption of fossil fuels. A pivotal goal has been set to achieve a 20% ethanol blending rate with petrol by 2025, a testament to the country’s commitment to sustainable energy practices.
It is a Green Fuel
The benefits of ethanol as a fuel extend beyond its mere source. It is renowned for supporting complete combustion, a factor that contributes to substantial reductions in carbon monoxide emissions, as highlighted by a comprehensive government report. The study indicated that the utilization of E20 fuel led to a staggering 50% decrease in carbon monoxide emissions in two-wheelers, and a commendable 30% reduction in four-wheelers. Furthermore, hydrocarbon emissions experienced a significant decline of 20%, while nitrous oxide emissions displayed variations contingent upon vehicle/engine types and operational conditions.
In essence, the unveiling of the world’s first 100% ethanol-fueled car is a resounding testament to India’s commitment to green energy and sustainability. Minister Nitin Gadkari’s visionary strides in this domain illuminate the path towards a future that is both energy-efficient and environmentally conscious. As the nation paves the way for innovative, eco-friendly transportation solutions, it not only reduces its dependence on imported oil but also sets an inspiring example for global sustainable development.
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