E20 Petrol Faces Controversy Over Contaminants, Sparks Concern Among Automakers New Delhi: Leading automobile manufacturers in India, including Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki, and Mahindra, have raised concerns about the quality of E20 petrol, which contains 20% ethanol. The issue centers on the presence of high levels of chloride and moisture in the fuel, which could potentially damage vehicle components. These concerns were highlighted in internal emails shared with international news agency Reuters, which reported that the companies warned of potential risks to vehicle performance and safety. According to the emails, samples collected from 21 states across India revealed elevated levels of chloride and moisture in E20 petrol. The manufacturers argued that excessive chloride could corrode vehicle parts, while high moisture content might lead to premature wear and tear, compromising engine efficiency. The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) initially raised similar concerns, citing the need for further scientific analysis. However, SIAM later retracted its claims, stating that the initial findings were based on limited internal testing and lacked sufficient data for conclusive results. The central petroleum ministry has dismissed the allegations, asserting that there is no evidence of widespread contamination in E20 fuel. The ministry pointed to routine checks conducted by oil marketing companies, which have not identified significant issues. It also noted that only a few isolated incidents have been reported, emphasizing that the fuel blend meets safety standards. The push for E20 petrol is part of India’s broader strategy to reduce dependence on imported crude oil. Launched in 2025, the initiative aims to cut emissions and promote sustainable energy.#tata_motors #maruti_suzuki #mahindra #society_of_indian_automobile_manufacturers #central_petroleum_ministry
Sierra & Curvv Nearly Triple Tata Motors' Midsize SUV Sales Tata Motors reported a significant surge in midsize SUV sales during the fourth quarter of FY2026, with the Sierra and Curvv models driving nearly triple the previous year’s figures. According to data from the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), the company sold 28,129 midsize SUVs in Q4 FY26, compared to 10,355 units in the same period of FY25. The Sierra and Curvv accounted for over 14% of Tata’s total sales during this period, marking a substantial contribution to the company’s overall performance. The Sierra, in particular, has been a standout performer, with Tata Motors receiving over 1 lakh bookings for the model. Production is being ramped up to meet the high demand, and by March 2026, the company had already delivered 14,000 units of the Sierra. This rapid growth in sales highlights the growing popularity of the model among Indian consumers, who are increasingly favoring larger, more powerful SUVs. In addition to the Sierra and Curvv, Tata’s compact SUV segment also saw strong performance. The Nexon and Punch models registered a 27% year-over-year (YoY) growth in sales, with 121,587 units sold in Q4 FY26 compared to 95,614 units in Q4 FY25. These models have long been a staple of Tata’s lineup, and their continued success underscores the brand’s ability to cater to a broad range of customer preferences. The Harrier and Safari, two of Tata’s established midsize SUVs, also contributed to the company’s sales in Q4 FY26. Together, they accounted for 15,188 units sold during the quarter. Meanwhile, the Tiago, Tigor, and Altroz—compact hatchbacks and hatchback variants—combined to sell 33,839 units, reflecting steady demand for these models.#tata_motors #sierra #curvv #society_of_indian_automobile_manufacturers #siam
