SerpApi.Org
As discussions around the rollout of E20 fuel continue, Telugu actor and Mahesh Babu's stepbrother, Naresh Vijaya Krishna, has joined the debate by publicly criticising the ethanol-blended petrol. In a post on X, the actor clarified that he was "not anti-national" as he criticised E20 fuel, claiming it was creating problems for vehicle owners by leading to frequent repairs and rising maintenance costs.
Sharing a detailed note, Naresh clarified that he was "not anti-national" but questioned the rapid rollout of the fuel blend, arguing that it has created unnecessary hardships for motorists. "I am not anti national but this ethanol Petrol is giving heart attacks from bike users to high-end car users," he began his note, before going on to explain how his friend suffered because of the E20 fuel.
The actor said he had switched to 100-octane petrol for his Porsche Panamera, which is priced at around Rs 165 per litre, after hearing concerns about the problems allegedly caused by the E20 fuel.
He also cited the example of a friend whose recently purchased Toyota Camry allegedly required an engine valve replacement costing Rs 3.5 lakh. Referring to his own car, Naresh claimed similar repairs could cost around Rs 12 lakh.
Stressing that his criticism was not about owning a luxury car, the actor said his concern was for ordinary motorists who cannot afford expensive fuel or repairs. "What about bike users or anyone for that matter? Nightmares," he wrote. Naresh added that while he understood the government's intention to protect the environment, the rollout of ethanol-blended fuel appeared "very hasty and radical".
Drawing a comparison with Brazil, he argued that the foreign country had successfully implemented ethanol blending in a phased manner rather than introducing it rapidly.
After an X user pointed out that Porsche recommends premium high-octane petrol irrespective of ethanol blending, Naresh defended his stand. The actor said he was aware of the manufacturer's recommendations but argued that 100-octane fuel is not widely available at petrol stations, particularly on highways. "Please understand my protest. It's not about me. It's about many issues," he responded.
Naresh's remarks come as concerns over ethanol-blended fuel are also being raised in Parliament. Actor and Rajya Sabha MP Kamal Haasan, earlier this year, raised his concerns in the Parliament, seeking clarification from the government on the impact of E20 petrol on vehicle mileage, engine components and compatibility across different categories of vehicles.
The actor-MP also questioned why the availability of E10 petrol had been reduced despite its wider compatibility with older vehicles and asked whether the government planned to restore it as an option. He further sought details on warranty, insurance and consumer protection in cases of vehicle damage linked to E20 fuel, while also asking whether the government had assessed ethanol price volatility and its impact on fuel affordability.
The government has been promoting ethanol blending as part of its strategy to reduce crude oil imports, improve energy security and cut emissions. While the policy has gathered pace in recent years, it has also sparked discussions among motorists over engine compatibility, maintenance costs and fuel efficiency.
