New Delhi, Nov 4: India’s alternative-fuel mobility push is set to receive a major boost, with Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari announcing that Toyota will introduce a 100 per cent bioethanol-powered version of its Innova vehicle on November 26.
Speaking at the ‘Powering the Next Mile’ conclave in New Delhi on Tuesday, Gadkari said the upcoming vehicle would operate entirely on bioethanol instead of conventional petrol, potentially offering substantial savings in running costs.
“This month, on November 26, I am going to launch Toyota’s four-wheeler Innova, which will run entirely on 100 per cent bioethanol instead of petrol,” the minister said.
Gadkari Explains How Running Costs Could Fall
Explaining the expected cost advantage, Gadkari said bioethanol was currently priced at around Rs 75 per litre, compared with petrol at approximately Rs 120 per litre.
He said the vehicle would also generate nearly 60 per cent of its power through electricity while running. Taking this into account, the effective operating expense could be comparable to using petrol priced at just Rs 25-30 per litre.
“The price of ethanol is Rs 75 per litre, while petrol costs Rs 120 per litre. This vehicle will also generate 60 per cent of its power through electricity while running. So, when calculated on an average basis compared to petrol, the effective cost will be equivalent to Rs 25-Rs 30 per litre,” Gadkari stated.
The minister projected the technology as a cost-effective alternative for consumers while supporting the country’s efforts to reduce dependence on conventional fossil fuels.
Focus On Cleaner And Alternative-Fuel Mobility
Gadkari said green, safe and inclusive technologies, including electric and alternative-fuel vehicles, could benefit both consumers and the national economy.
He argued that wider adoption of such technologies could help lower transportation expenses and reduce reliance on conventional fuels.
“This will result in significant savings for consumers. Regarding electric vehicles, I would like to say that this green, safe and inclusive technology will benefit all of you as well as the country,” he said.
Gadkari Recalls Growth Of India’s Electric Two-Wheeler Market
Highlighting the progress of electric mobility in India, Gadkari recalled his involvement in launching the first electric two-wheelers manufactured by Bajaj and TVS.
At the time, electric two-wheelers offered a driving range of around 125 kilometres, he said.
However, he noted that some startups subsequently reduced battery capacity to make their vehicles more affordable. This helped bring the price of electric scooters down to approximately Rs 70,000-72,000, although their range also dropped to around 70 kilometres.
The minister’s announcement of the bioethanol-powered Innova comes amid efforts to expand the use of alternative fuels and make cleaner mobility options more accessible.
