Honda urges government action to make bioethanol fuels affordable
At a recent event organised by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), Honda Motor Co. Ltd highlighted the need for government intervention to make bioethanol fuels more economically viable for widespread adoption in India. The company emphasised that while bioethanol holds promise as a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels, its adoption is hindered by high running costs and relatively low fuel efficiency.
Bioethanol’s Potential in Achieving Carbon Neutrality
Honda underscored the environmental benefits of bioethanol, particularly its ability to significantly reduce carbon emissions. The fuel is seen as a critical step toward achieving India’s carbon neutrality goals, especially when paired with renewable energy initiatives. Bioethanol, derived from agricultural resources, also presents an opportunity to support India’s large rural population, where agriculture remains a dominant livelihood.
The Challenge of Cost and Efficiency
Despite its environmental advantages, the company pointed out that the higher running costs of vehicles powered by bioethanol could deter consumers. To address this, Honda suggested that government policies should focus on making bioethanol fuels more affordable. Possible measures include reducing taxes on ethanol and setting mechanisms to lower fuel prices. Such steps, the company argued, would help bring the running costs of ethanol-powered vehicles in line with those of traditional gasoline vehicles.
Improving Fuel Efficiency and Infrastructure
The company also called on vehicle manufacturers to improve the fuel efficiency of ethanol-powered vehicles, which would help offset the higher costs associated with the fuel. While infrastructure for ethanol distribution is already well-integrated into the existing network of gasoline stations, Honda acknowledged that the gradual expansion of alternative fuel infrastructure, such as CNG stations, is also contributing to a diversified energy ecosystem.
Socio-Economic Benefits
Beyond environmental advantages, Honda highlighted the socio-economic potential of promoting ethanol fuels in India. By utilising locally sourced agricultural byproducts to produce ethanol, the fuel can provide a boost to rural economies. The company stressed that integrating rural communities into the bioethanol value chain could lead to significant socio-economic development.
The Road Ahead
While bioethanol has its challenges, Honda sees it as a complementary solution alongside electric vehicles in India’s journey toward sustainable mobility. Drawing from its experience in markets like Brazil, Honda has already introduced ethanol-powered models in India, such as the CBF300 Flex Fuel motorcycle. The company believes that both flex-fuel vehicles and electric vehicles will play crucial roles in India’s future energy mix.
In conclusion, Honda’s call for government support reflects a broader industry push to align environmental goals with economic feasibility. With coordinated efforts from policymakers, manufacturers, and stakeholders, bioethanol could emerge as a key player in India’s transition to a greener and more sustainable transportation landscape.