New Delhi, Dec. 11 -- The Centre has opened discussions on whether India should move to higher ethanol blends in petrol from the current E20 (20% ethanol, 80% petrol), two people aware of the matter said, amid continuing consumer unease over the current E20 blend.

According to the first person, who spoke on condition of anonymity, the government is of the view that higher blends-such as E23 and E27-as well as flex-fuel vehicles should be explored, and discussions have begun towards testing feasibility. Notably, flex-fuel vehicles can operate on any proportion of blended fuel, including 100% ethanol.

"There are discussions ongoing among relevant ministries along with industry to see how more ethanol blending can be achieved," the second ...