Tata Motors has delivered the first-of-its-kind Hydrogen Fuel Cell powered buses to Indian Oil, Paving the Way for Sustainable Mobility.
India’s quest for sustainable, green energy solutions has led to numerous pioneering initiatives, and one of the most promising endeavors in this context is the Indian Oil Corporation’s introduction of the hydrogen-powered bus.
This article sheds light on this innovative transportation alternative and how it can revolutionize India’s transit landscape.
News in detail
The Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has built India’s first green-hydrogen-powered bus that emits ONLY water. The bus is “put on trial” by Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. While flagging off the buses, he said hydrogen will be India’s transition fuel for moving away from fossil fuels.
This event marks another step in the right direction towards a “fossil-fuel-less” world. The IOC will produce Hydrogen by splitting water using power produced through renewable means. The hydrogen will power two buses which will within the National Capital Region (NCR). The performance of these two buses will be closely monitored. Data from the trial operations will be analyzed to streamline the parameters, so that the buses that will be mass-produced will be perfect in all parameters.
Green Hydrogen Bus Built by TATA Motors
Tata Motors built these 12-meter-long buses at a dedicated lab in their world-class R&D center in Pune. These buses feature a low-floor design for easy boarding and alighting, accommodating 35 passengers. They were delivered after rigorous road tests and validations. Tata Motors gained expertise and valuable experience through collaboration with esteemed industry partners and research institutions, enabling them to adapt advanced hydrogen-based proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell technology to suit Indian conditions and play a pivotal role in the development of these buses.
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Hydrogen is the fuel of the future
Hydrogen when burnt emits only water vapour as an exhaust residue. With energy density three times more than fossil fuel and the absence of harmful emissions, hydrogen shines as a cleaner, more efficient choice to meet the energy requirements of the future.
For producing 1 KG of green hydrogen as many as 50 units of renewable electricity and 9 liters of deionized water are needed.
What Is Green Hydrogen?.
Green hydrogen is a special kind of hydrogen made using clean energy like solar and wind power. It is created by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using special machines called electrolyzers. These machines run on clean energy, so they don’t release harmful gases into the air.
This green hydrogen is much better for the environment than grey hydrogen, which comes from fossil fuels.
The Need for Hydrogen Power in India
With the increasing levels of pollution and the growing concerns over global warming, there is a dire need for countries like India to pivot towards greener energy sources. Traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles contribute significantly to air pollution and carbon emissions. As one of the world’s largest consumers of crude oil and with a burgeoning population reliant on vehicular transport, India has been seeking more sustainable energy and transportation solutions. Enter hydrogen power.
Advantages of Indian Oil’s Hydrogen-Powered Bus
Eco-Friendly: Unlike diesel buses, hydrogen-powered buses emit only water vapor, ensuring a significant reduction in harmful greenhouse gases.
Fuel Efficiency: Hydrogen fuel cells are generally more efficient than internal combustion engines, offering better mileage and longer operational lifetimes.
Energy Security: Harnessing hydrogen power can reduce India’s dependence on crude oil imports, enhancing energy security.
Boost to the Economy: The development and adoption of hydrogen infrastructure can potentially lead to job creation and stimulate the economy, from hydrogen production to transport and infrastructure maintenance.
Conclusion
Indian Oil’s venture into hydrogen-powered buses signifies a significant step towards a sustainable and green future for India. While challenges exist, the proactive measures taken by corporations like Indian Oil, combined with government initiatives, can pave the way for India to be a global leader in hydrogen-powered mobility. As the world is gradually moving towards eco-friendly transportation solutions, India’s hydrogen bus initiative stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to a cleaner, greener tomorrow.
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