Tata Motors will bring the first Flex Fuel Car, Punch SUV will run on E100 ethanol!

Tata Motors is going to take a big step towards India’s growing ethanol economy and reducing petroleum imports. Shailesh Chandra, MD and CEO of Passenger Vehicles of the company, has recently confirmed that the company will launch its first flex fuel vehicle by the end of this year (2026) or early 2027. These vehicles will be able to run on blends ranging from E20 to E100 (100% ethanol).

This announcement is completely in line with the High Ethanol Blending Policy of the Government of India, which is emphasizing on reducing crude oil imports, increasing farmers’ income and environmental protection. Tata Motors had already introduced the Punch Flex Fuel prototype at the 2025 Bharat Mobility Expo, which has proven its capability by running on different ethanol mixes.

The company says that they are completely ready in terms of technology and can go into production as soon as the regulatory framework is ready. This launch is considered important towards bringing flex fuel technology into the mainstream in the Indian auto industry.

What is flex fuel technology?

Flex fuel vehicles (FFVs) are equipped with engines that can run on different ratios of gasoline and ethanol. Tata’s upcoming model will work on E20 (20% ethanol), E85 (85% ethanol) and E100 (pure ethanol). In this, fuel system, injectors and sensors made of special material are installed, so that there is no harm due to the corrosive nature of ethanol.

Tata Punch could be the first model

According to many reports, Tata Punch Flex Fuel may be launched first. The prototype shown at Auto Expo 2025 used a 1.2 liter engine, which supports high ethanol blending. Considering the popularity of Punch, this seems to be the right choice.

Environmental and economic benefits

Using E100 ethanol will reduce carbon emissions significantly. In India, ethanol is mainly made from sugarcane and other agricultural residues, which will provide additional income to farmers. The government aims to reduce imports, currently India imports 90% of crude oil. Flex fuel vehicles will help in reducing this dependence.

Challenges and future

Availability of ethanol, fueling infrastructure and initial cost are challenges, but the government is working on these. This initiative of Tata Motors will inspire other companies also. In the coming time, this technology can also be seen in more models like Nexon or Tiago.