India has launched E85 fuel, signalling a push towards higher ethanol blending
Higher ethanol use can reduce oil imports, boost energy security and support domestic biofuels
Frequent changes in blending targets create costs and uncertainty for automakers
E85 offers lower energy content, raising concerns about fuel efficiency and running costs
Expanding ethanol production could intensify pressure on water resources and sugarcane cultivation
Ethanol, EVs and biogas should form part of a diversified transport energy strategy