Isobutanol Could Replace Diesel in Tractors, Says Nitin Gadkari

Key Highlights:

• Isobutanol can be mixed with diesel or used as a full replacement.

• Gadkari supports cleaner fuels for tractors and construction equipment.

• Diesel consumption in India continues to grow.

• Construction equipment sales hit 1.40 lakh units in 2024–25.

• India targets 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2030.

India’s Road Transport and Highways Minister, Nitin Gadkari, has once again stressed the need for cleaner fuel alternatives in India’s farming and construction sectors. In a recent discussion with industry experts, Gadkari highlighted isobutanol as a promising biofuel that could replace diesel in tractors and construction machines.

He shared with Autocar Professional that isobutanol can be blended with diesel up to 10%, and full replacement is under active testing.

What is Isobutanol and Why Does It Matter

Isobutanol is a biofuel made from ethanol using fermentation. It has several advantages over ethanol:

• Higher energy density

• Less corrosive nature

• More compatible with diesel engines

Because of these features, isobutanol is being considered as a diesel substitute. Gadkari said, “We have asked the industry if diesel engines can run on isobutanol.”

Growing Push for Cleaner Fuel Alternatives

As demand grows for cleaner energy, several companies are working on different fuel solutions:

• JCB India has developed a machine powered by hydrogen.

• SANY India and Schwing Stetter are testing electric equipment.

• ZF Group from Germany is also working on multi-fuel compatible equipment.

Gadkari stressed that India must adopt multiple fuel alternatives since the country heavily depends on fossil fuel imports. He said, “We should look for alternatives… and I am sure that all alternatives will be available in the market.”

India’s Diesel Dependency Remains High

According to the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell, diesel accounts for 40% of India’s crude oil consumption. In 2024–25, diesel consumption rose by 2%, and it is expected to rise by 3% in 2025–26.

Construction Equipment Market Growing in India

India is now the third-largest construction equipment market globally. As per data from the Indian Construction Equipment Manufacturers’ Association (ICEMA):

• The industry grew by 3% in 2024–25

• Total sales reached 1.40 lakh units

• Domestic sales rose by 2.7% to 1.26 lakh units

• Exports increased by 10%, hitting 13,230 units

To support clean fuel adoption, Gadkari said, “I have already told our secretary about calling for a meeting of construction equipment people.”

Alternative Fuels in Indian Agriculture

The Minister also mentioned plans to test ethanol and isobutanol in tractors and harvesters, which currently run on diesel. He said, “We are trying to bring ethanol and isobutanol into tractor engines.”

He added that several companies and individuals are already experimenting with alternative fuels, and the government is open to supporting such innovations. “We are encouraging them,” he said.

Electric Tractors Still Emerging

While electric tractors are gaining popularity in some countries, they are not yet covered under India’s main subsidy schemes like FAME and PM-eDrive. Some Indian startups are working on electric tractors for farming and waste management, but mass adoption will take time.

India’s Biofuel Targets for 2030

India aims to cut fossil fuel use by promoting biofuels. The targets include:

• 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2030

• 5% biodiesel blending by 2030

These steps will help reduce pollution, cut oil imports, and boost farmer income.

Gadkari concluded by saying that each country’s fuel choice depends on availability and cost. “In some countries, fossil fuel is cheaper. But for us, it is a big problem,” he noted.

Also Read: PM-Kisan Yojana 20th Installment: Who Will Get the Benefit and What Needs to Be Done

CMV360 Says:

Nitin Gadkari’s push for isobutanol highlights India’s strong shift towards clean fuel alternatives in agriculture and construction. As diesel use rises, adopting biofuels like isobutanol and ethanol can reduce dependence on fossil fuels, support farmers, and promote sustainable growth in key sectors like farming and construction equipment manufacturing.