Maruti Suzuki India announced its intent to challenge a recent order from the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Raipur. The commission directed the automaker to replace a customer's Grand Vitara Strong Hybrid with a new E20-compatible vehicle, or alternatively, issue a refund and compensation.
The consumer court's order, issued on July 14, stems from a complaint alleging that the customer's Grand Vitara repeatedly experienced engine problems after being refueled with petrol containing ethanol. The commission ruled that the vehicle sold was not suitable for E20 fuel and mandated its replacement within 45 days. Should Maruti Suzuki fail to comply, the order stipulates a refund of approximately ₹20.5 lakh, covering the vehicle's price, insurance, and registration, along with ₹1 lakh for mental agony and ₹10,000 for litigation costs.
Maruti Suzuki Rejects Findings
In response, Maruti Suzuki firmly rejected the court's findings. The company stated that the vehicle in question is “an E20 compatible car, fully equipped to handle E20 fuel”, a fact it claims was clearly disclosed in the owner’s manual. Furthermore, Maruti Suzuki highlighted evidence of fuel contamination found in the customer’s vehicle, suggesting this, rather than incompatibility, was the root cause of the issues.
“Several other relevant facts have also not been reflected in the order,” the company added in its statement, affirming its intention to “take necessary steps to challenge the impugned order before the appropriate higher forum in accordance with law.”
Significance Amid E20 Rollout
This case holds considerable significance as India continues to expand the availability of E20 fuel as part of the government’s ethanol blending program. While the consumer commission sided with the customer's contention in this instance, Maruti Suzuki maintains its vehicles are engineered to operate on E20 fuel, underscoring its commitment to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction through robust engineering and processes.