Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has launched the world’s first prototype of the BS 6 Stage II electrified flex fuel vehicle, developed by Toyota Kirloskar Motor.
Speaking on the occasion Gadkari said that ethanol being an indigenous, eco-friendly, and renewable fuel, holds promising prospects for India.
“The emphasis of the Modi government on ethanol aligns with objectives of attaining energy self-sufficiency, doubling farmers’ income, transitioning them to Urjadata while continuing to support them as Annadata, and positively impacting the environment. The day ethanol economy becomes Rs 2 lakh crore agricultural growth rate will reach 20 per cent from the current 12 per cent,” the minister said.
Talking about innovations in biofuels Gadkari spoke of refinery in Numaligarh in Asssam of Indian Oil Corporation where bamboo is being used for manufacturing bio ethanol.
“This innovative vehicle is based on the Innova Hycross and is engineered to adhere to India’s stricter emission standards, marking it as the first-ever BS 6 (Stage II) electrified flex fuel vehicle prototype globally. The forthcoming stages for this prototype encompass meticulous refinement, homologation, and certification processes,” the minister added.
The vehicle was launched in the presence of Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minster Mahendra Nath Pandey, MD & CEO of Toyota Masakazu Yoshimura, MD & CEO of Kirloskar Systems Geetanjali Kirloskar, Ambassador, Diplomats from Japan Embassy, higher officials and advisors in New Delhi.
