India’s first hydrogen fuel cell bus, developed by KPIT-CSIR, was launched in Pune, with zero tailpipe emissions.
Here’s an article posted in Indian Express that talks about the first hydrogen fuel cell of India.
According to the article,
- India’s first hydrogen fuel cell bus unveiled in Pune
- Hydrogen fuel cells produce electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen atoms
- Fuel cells work like conventional batteries but do not run out of charge and don’t need to be recharged with electricity
The plans for scaling up the production and deployment of hydrogen fuel cell buses in India involve several initiatives and collaborations among various stakeholders:
- Pilot Programs: The Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) is leading the initial trials of hydrogen fuel cell buses in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). The first two buses were launched recently, with plans to expand the fleet to 15 buses by the end of the year. These buses will operate on predetermined routes and are expected to accumulate significant mileage for performance assessments.
- Route Permits and Homologation: IOC has applied for route permits from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and is in the process of homologation, which certifies that the vehicles are fit for public road use. The first three buses are anticipated to begin operations soon.
- Hydrogen Fueling Centers: A hydrogen fueling facility has been established in Faridabad to support the operational trials. This center will refuel the buses with green hydrogen produced through electrolysis powered by renewable energy sources.
- Commercial Viability: While pilot projects are underway, it is acknowledged that it may take years before hydrogen fuel cell buses become commercially viable due to high costs and the need for extensive infrastructure development for hydrogen production, storage, and distribution.
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