Indian Army Joins Hands with IOCL to Test Hydrogen Fuel Cell Buses

In a pivotal step towards finding green and sustainable transport solutions, the Indian Army has collaborated with Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) for demonstration trials of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus technology. The partnership underscores the Army's commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the two organizations in the presence of General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), and Mr. Shrikant Madhav Vaidya, Chairman of Indian Oil. During the event, the Indian Army received one Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus, marking the commencement of a mutually beneficial partnership aimed at fostering innovation and advancing sustainable transport solutions.

Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology offers a clean and efficient alternative by converting hydrogen gas into electricity through an electrochemical process, leaving only water vapor as a byproduct, ensuring zero emissions.

The Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus showcased has a seating capacity of 37 passengers and promises an impressive mileage of 250-300 km on a full 30 kg onboard tank of hydrogen fuel.

"This collaboration with IOCL is a significant step towards exploring and implementing sustainable and eco-friendly transport solutions for the Indian Army," said General Manoj Pande. "We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and embracing innovative technologies that align with our environmental stewardship goals."

Notably, on March 21, 2023, the Indian Army became the first government entity to sign an MoU with National Thermal Power Corporation Renewable Energy Limited for the installation of Green Hydrogen-based Microgrid Power Plants along the Northern Borders. A pilot project is being set up at Chushul, where a 200 Kilo Watt Green Hydrogen-based Microgrid will provide 24x7 clean electricity to troops deployed in inhospitable terrain and extreme climatic conditions.

With a focus on innovation and environmental responsibility, the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus endeavor between the Indian Army and IOCL represents a significant stride towards cleaner and greener transport solutions, paving the way for a more sustainable future.