Goodbye Petrol Worries? Maruti Set to Launch First Flex Fuel Car This Week, WagonR Likely to Lead the Way

New Delhi: Maruti Suzuki is going to take a big step amid rising fuel prices in the country. The company may introduce its first car equipped with flex fuel technology this week. Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has already hinted that Maruti will soon launch flex fuel vehicles in the Indian market. In such a situation, the eyes of the auto sector are now fixed on the next announcement of the company.

What is Flex Fuel technology?

Vehicles with flex fuel technology can run on petrol as well as high amounts of ethanol blended fuel. It is believed that Maruti's new car can support ethanol blends ranging from E85 to E100. This means that the requirement of petrol in the vehicle will be significantly reduced and the fuel cost can also reduce.

When can the big announcement be made?

According to the information, Maruti Suzuki can introduce a vehicle equipped with this technology on June 4. However, the chances of its sales starting immediately after launch are less. The reason for this is that the availability and infrastructure of ethanol based fuel across the country still needs to be further strengthened.

In which model will the new technology be available? 

The company has not yet officially revealed the name of the model, but there is talk in the auto sector that WagonR may be the first to be introduced with flex fuel technology. WagonR is already one of the most popular hatchback cars from Maruti and its sales have been consistently strong.

Where was the glimpse seen? 

Maruti Suzuki had showcased a prototype of the flex fuel WagonR at the 2023 Auto Expo. At that time the company had introduced it as the future of alternative fuel technology in India. Now it is believed that the production version of the same model can be launched in the market.

What will be the benefit to the customers?

Experts believe that use of ethanol based fuel will reduce dependence on petrol. This can reduce fuel expenditure as well as reduce carbon emissions. The government has also been promoting ethanol blended fuel for a long time so as to reduce dependence on crude oil imports.

Currently, the auto market is waiting for June 4, when Maruti can clear the picture related to its first flex fuel car.