Nitin Gadkari to Introduce 100% Ethanol-Fueled Car on August 29
- ByStartupStory | August 28, 2023
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari revealed plans to unveil a 100% ethanol-fueled version of Toyota‘s Innova car on August 29. Known for advocating alternative fuel-powered and environmentally-friendly vehicles, Gadkari previously launched a hydrogen-powered car, the Toyota Mirai EV, last year.
During the Mint Sustainability Summit, Gadkari shared, “On August 29, I am going to launch the popular (Toyota) Innova car on 100% ethanol.”
This groundbreaking car will mark the world’s first BS-VI (Stage-II) electrified flex-fuel vehicle. Gadkari’s interest in biofuels dates back to 2004, prompted by a surge in petrol prices in India. He emphasized that biofuels have the potential to significantly reduce foreign exchange expenditure on petroleum imports.
“If we want to become Atamnirbhar (self-reliant) we have to bring this oil import to zero. At present it is Rs 16 lakh crore. This is a big loss to the economy,” Gadkari emphasized, highlighting the goal of achieving self-reliance.
Pollution remains a critical issue in India, and Gadkari stressed the need for more sustainable actions to combat it. He acknowledged that while many sustainability initiatives have been undertaken, there is a continuous need for improvement to address pollution, improve ecological conditions, and enhance water quality in rivers.
Gadkari also mentioned the ongoing road projects, valued at Rs 65,000 crore, expected to be completed by year-end, including the construction of the Dwarka Expressway. He expressed concerns about the adverse effects of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, advocating for organic farming as a means to create wealth and promote sustainability.
“We need to educate people to change waste into wealth,” Gadkari remarked, expressing hope that constructing more highways could reduce logistic costs from 14-16% to 9%.
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