Maruti's Flex Fuel WagonR That Can Run On 85 % Ethanol Ready For Launch

Maruti Suzuki is preparing to introduce its first flex fuel vehicles in the current financial year, marking an important shift in its approach to alternative fuels. The company has chosen the familiar Wagon R as the starting point for this transition, with production scheduled to begin in November 2025. This move aligns with parent company Suzuki Motor Corporation’s broader strategy of diversifying powertrain options beyond conventional petrol and diesel.

How Flex Fuel Technology Works

Flex fuel technology allows engines to run on a mix of petrol and ethanol, with ethanol blends ranging from 20 percent (E20) up to 85 percent (E85). This flexibility means the car can adapt to the fuel available at the pump. The upcoming Wagon R flex fuel will retain its 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine but with extensive modifications.

These include a heated fuel rail for easier cold starts, upgraded fuel pumps and injectors, an ethanol sensor to detect the exact fuel mix, and a recalibrated engine management system. The modifications ensure the car remains compliant with BS6 Phase II emission standards.

This technology has clear advantages in the Indian context. Ethanol can be produced locally from crops and agricultural waste, reducing reliance on imported crude oil. It also burns cleaner than petrol, lowering carbon emissions. By enabling cars to use higher ethanol blends, Maruti Suzuki is tapping into a government-backed push for wider adoption of biofuels.

Complementary Biogas Initiative

Parallel to flex fuel development, Suzuki is also investing in biogas production in India. The company has tied up with dairy cooperatives to set up plants that will convert cattle manure into carbon-neutral biogas. These facilities are expected to start operations in phases from 2025. The biogas will primarily support Maruti’s CNG vehicle portfolio, which already forms a large share of its sales.

This initiative not only creates another renewable fuel option but also provides rural farmers with an additional source of income through the sale of manure. By combining ethanol and biogas projects, Suzuki is building a multi-layered alternative fuel ecosystem in India.

Market Ready?

The timing of this rollout is significant. Petrol sold in India already contains 20 percent ethanol in many regions, and the government has set a target of higher blending in the near future. Flex fuel capability ensures that consumers can benefit from these changes without worrying about compatibility.

For buyers, the biggest advantage will be operating costs. Ethanol is often cheaper than petrol, and savings could reach 15 to 20 percent depending on regional fuel prices. Fleet operators and commercial buyers are expected to show early interest because lower fuel bills directly improve profitability. At the same time, reduced emissions will help companies meet sustainability targets.

What to Expect From the Wagon R Flex Fuel

Visually, the flex fuel Wagon R will remain largely unchanged from the standard model. Subtle details such as green accents and flex fuel badging will set it apart. Inside, changes are expected to be minimal, possibly limited to a display showing ethanol blend levels.

Maruti Suzuki has not disclosed pricing or production volumes, but the company is expected to keep costs competitive to encourage adoption. By being among the first to mass-produce flex fuel cars in India, Maruti could gain an early lead in a segment that may expand rapidly over the next decade.

The launch underscores Maruti Suzuki’s strategy of offering multiple fuel choices rather than committing solely to electric vehicles. Alongside hybrids, CNG, and eventual EVs, flex fuel cars will give the company a broader portfolio to match India’s varied infrastructure and consumer preferences.