Speaking at the ‘Powering the Next Mile’ conference, Gadkari said the new Toyota Innova would operate entirely on bioethanol instead of conventional petrol. He also revealed that approximately 60% of the vehicle’s energy while driving would be generated through electricity, helping reduce its operating costs.
According to Gadkari, ethanol currently costs around ₹75 per litre, while petrol is priced at approximately ₹120 per litre. He explained that with the new technology, the effective fuel cost of operating the vehicle could be equivalent to just ₹25–30 per litre of petrol.
The Union Minister said that electric and alternative-fuel vehicles could help reduce fuel expenses for ordinary consumers while also lowering India’s dependence on conventional fuels.
Highlighting the development of electric two-wheelers, Gadkari recalled that early electric scooters from companies such as Bajaj and TVS offered a range of approximately 125 kilometres. However, some manufacturers later reduced battery capacity to make their vehicles more affordable, bringing the range of several scooters down to around 70 kilometres.
Gadkari also emphasised that reducing pollution would remain one of India’s biggest challenges in the coming years. He stressed the importance of achieving self-reliance in electric vehicle manufacturing and developing cleaner transportation technologies.
The upcoming bioethanol-powered Toyota Innova is being viewed as an important initiative in India’s transition towards alternative-fuel technology and more sustainable mobility.
