Skoda India has recently achieved a significant milestone by becoming one of the first brands to receive official certification for E20-compliant engines. The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) has granted an E20 fuel-compliant certificate for Skoda’s 1.0-litre engine. The 1.5-litre TSi engines are expected to receive the same certification by the fourth quarter of 2024.
Currently, the 1.0-litre TSi turbo-petrol engine, which is E20 fuel-compliant, is available in the Kushaq and the Slavia models, both with manual and automatic transmission options. E20 fuel consists of a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol. With the Indian government’s mandate requiring all vehicles to be E20-compliant by April 2025, this certification puts Skoda ahead of the curve. It is anticipated that Volkswagen’s Virtus and Taigun, which share the same engine, will also receive this certification soon.
Commenting on the achievement, Petr Janeba, Brand Director of Skoda Auto India, stated, “Along with making cars that lead in driving dynamics and safety, efficiency and sustainability have also been at the centre of our product and production practices. TSi technology has been time-tested and proven for efficiency and emissions while being effectively powered. We have evolved and adapted this technology to various updates in standards and policies across the globe. The 1.0 TSi especially, with its three-cylinder turbo configuration tuned for power and efficiency is a versatile powertrain, and the E20 certification is a testament to this. We are confident of a similar outcome when the 1.5 TSi is tested, later this year.”
This achievement underscores Skoda’s commitment to innovation and environmental sustainability, setting a strong example for the automotive industry in India.