Indian Army and IOCL partner for hydrogen fuel cell bus technology

The Indian Army has partnered with Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) to conduct demonstration trials of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus technology, demonstrating a commitment to green and sustainable transportation.

The Indian Army has partnered with Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) to conduct demonstration trials of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus technology, demonstrating a strong commitment to discovering green and sustainable transportation solutions. The Indian Army is renowned for its dedication to innovation and environmental sustainability.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by the Indian Army and the IOCL in the presence of General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), and Shrikant Madhav Vaidya, Chairman of Indian Oil. During the ceremony, the Indian Army got one hydrogen fuel cell bus. This signals the beginning of a mutually beneficial cooperation between the Indian Army and IOCL. The MoU underlined the parties’ commitment to encouraging innovation and improving sustainable transport solutions in the future.

Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology provides a clean and efficient alternative by turning hydrogen gas into power via an electrochemical method. The technique generates just water vapour as a byproduct, resulting in zero emissions. The Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus offers seats for 37 people. It boasts an amazing mileage of 250-300 on a full 30 kilogramme onboard hydrogen tank.

Significantly, the Indian Army signed an agreement with National Thermal Power Corporation Renewable Energy Limited on March 21, 2023, making it the first government body to do so for the construction of microgrid power plants based on green hydrogen along the country’s northern borders. A pilot project is being setup at Chushul, where a 200 Kilo Watt Green Hydrogen based Microgram will provide 24×7 clean electricity to troops deployed in inhospitable terrain and extreme climatic conditions.  

The Indian Army and IOCL’s Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus project, which focuses on innovation and environmental responsibility, is a big step forward in the direction of cleaner and greener transportation options.