Maruti Suzuki Could Debut India’s First 100% Ethanol Car On June 5

Maruti Suzuki is set to launch India's first 100% ethanol-capable flex-fuel car on June 5, 2026. The announcement was confirmed by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari during an event in Delhi.

The Indian government has been actively promoting higher ethanol blending in fuels to reduce the country's dependence on imported crude oil and improve sustainability. Authorities have also encouraged car and two-wheeler manufacturers to develop more ethanol-compatible vehicles for the Indian market.

The launch is expected to take place on the occasion of World Environment Day, celebrated globally on June 5. This could mark a major milestone for India's automobile industry as the country moves towards cleaner and more indigenous fuel alternatives.

Several two-wheeler manufacturers, including TVS Motor Company, have already showcased vehicles capable of running on 100% ethanol. However, no passenger vehicle manufacturer in India has launched a fully ethanol-compatible flex-fuel car so far.

100% Ethanol Capable Car From Maruti Suzuki

Maruti Suzuki is now expected to become the first passenger vehicle OEM in India to introduce a car capable of operating entirely on E100 ethanol fuel. These vehicles require specially designed fuel systems, corrosion-resistant engine components, upgraded fuel lines, and modified ignition systems to safely handle high ethanol content.

Suzuki has already showcased ethanol-compatible technology globally. At the Japan Mobility Show 2025, the company displayed a flex-fuel version of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx capable of running on E85 fuel. However, the upcoming India-spec model is expected to feature a more advanced setup capable of operating on 100% ethanol.

Increasing ethanol usage can significantly reduce petrol consumption, lower emissions, and improve India's energy security. Ethanol is largely produced domestically using agricultural products, which can also benefit local farmers, strengthen rural supply chains, and support the Indian economy.

The government believes that wider adoption of ethanol fuel could reduce India's vulnerability to global crude oil price fluctuations. India has already adopted E20 fuel as a standard and is gradually planning to move towards higher blends such as E25, E27, and E30 in the coming years.