Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian Oil Corporation to assess the feasibility of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) for large-scale use in India. Under the agreement, HMIL has handed over a Hyundai NEXO FCEV to IndianOil for on-road trials.
Real-world testing and cost evaluation
Over a two-year period, the two organisations will carry out trials to examine the operational reliability and durability of hydrogen-powered vehicles in Indian driving conditions. The study is expected to cover 40,000 kilometres. In addition, a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) assessment will be conducted to evaluate running and maintenance costs under simulated private use scenarios.
Commenting on the MoU, Unsoo Kim, Managing Director, HMIL, said, “As India’s foremost smart mobility solutions provider, it is our firm resolve to innovate with future ready technology. By signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Indian Oil Corporation, a pioneer in India’s energy sector, we aim to combine world-class Hydrogen fuel cell technology with Indian expertise.”
“Together, we seek to unlock the potential of Green Hydrogen as a transformative energy source making it accessible, affordable, and sustainable. We are confident this collaboration will serve as a critical step in demonstrating the potential of hydrogen as an alternate sustainable fuel source in the times to come,” he added.
Alok Sharma, Director (R&D) and Board Member, IndianOil, added, “As India’s largest public-sector energy entity, we at IndianOil are proud to be catalysts in the Government of India’s vision to attain energy security and reduce fossil fuel imports. We believe Hydrogen fuel is a vital component of India’s clean energy roadmap, and fuel cell technology holds immense potential in significantly aiding net carbon neutrality. This collaboration with Hyundai Motor India will enable us to conduct in-depth studies in fuel cell technology and advance efforts towards realizing a greener mobility ecosystem.”In parallel, Hyundai Motor India is also working with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) to establish a Hydrogen Innovation Centre. The facility will be used to support research and pilot projects and serve as a testing platform for startups and vehicle manufacturers working in hydrogen mobility.
