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7 Frequently Asked Questions About Hydrogen Trucks

Hydrogen trucks are still in their early stages and may take time to become popular. However, interest in hydrogen as a fuel source is growing, especially in India. As the government and the commercial vehicle industry work to reduce carbon emissions, hydrogen-powered vehicles could play a key role. If you have questions about hydrogen trucks, you’re not alone. Here are the seven most frequently asked questions about hydrogen trucks and their answers.

Hydrogen Truck

The Future of Fuels: Can Hydrogen Compete with Electric Vehicles?

Hydrogen and electric vehicles (EVs) are both promising options for the future of transportation. Hydrogen trucks can refuel quickly and have a longer range, making them suitable for long trips. However, EVs have better infrastructure and are becoming more popular. Hydrogen is still developing, with fewer refuelling stations available. Both fuels aim to reduce carbon emissions and improve sustainability. Ultimately, the choice between hydrogen and electric vehicles will depend on factors like availability, cost, and specific use cases. As technology improves, both options may play important roles in our future transport systems.

1. What is the range of the hydrogen truck?

Currently, hydrogen trucks are not widely available in India, as many are still prototypes. However, trucks like the Eicher Pro 3015 Fuel Cell and Tata Prima H.55 S are expected to have a range of about 350 to 500 kilometres on a full tank. One of the main advantages of hydrogen trucks is their quick refueling time. Refueling a hydrogen truck only takes about 15 to 20 minutes, much faster than charging an electric vehicle, which can take at least an hour.

2. Are there any hydrogen-powered trucks?

Yes, four major hydrogen-powered trucks have been announced in India. These include the Tata Prima H.55S, Tata Prima E.55 S, Eicher Pro 3015 Fuel Cell, and Ashok Leyland 4125 HN. Additionally, Reliance Industries plans to convert its fleet of 5,000 internal combustion engine (ICE) trucks into hydrogen-powered trucks, using hydrogen produced at its Jamnagar facility.

3. Are hydrogen trucks better than electric?

Hydrogen trucks have several advantages over electric trucks, including shorter refuelling times, longer ranges, and higher power output. However, the current infrastructure in India supports electric vehicles more effectively. Hydrogen fuel stations are still limited, while electric charging stations are more widely available. Thus, the choice between hydrogen and electric depends on your specific needs and the infrastructure available in your area.

4. Which is the first hydrogen truck in India?

The first hydrogen truck in India, known as the H2-ICE, was unveiled by Reliance and Ashok Leyland in 2023. This truck has a design similar to conventional diesel trucks and can carry payloads between 19 to 35 tonnes. Although it has been revealed, it is not yet available for sale.

5. How much does a hydrogen truck cost?

Currently, there are no hydrogen trucks available for sale in India. However, the expected price for announced hydrogen trucks ranges from ₹20 lakhs to ₹28 lakhs (ex-showroom). This pricing is comparable to battery electric vehicles (BEVs). As for hydrogen fuel, it is priced at around ₹300 to ₹400 per kilogram, which can add to operational costs.

6. How safe are hydrogen trucks?

Hydrogen trucks are designed with safety in mind. While hydrogen is flammable, manufacturers implement strict safety features and standards. Hydrogen is non-toxic and disperses quickly into the air if released. In the event of a leak, the primary concern is to prevent any source of ignition. Overall, hydrogen trucks are considered safe when proper protocols are followed.

7. Can I convert my truck to hydrogen?

In theory, it is possible to convert a conventional truck to run on hydrogen. Reliance Industries has announced plans to retrofit its 5,000 ICE trucks with hydrogen powertrains. However, converting your truck yourself is not advisable. Hydrogen systems require high safety standards for storage and handling, which can only be achieved through professional manufacturing. DIY conversions could be unsafe and may not meet regulatory standards.

Government Support for Hydrogen Adoption

The Indian government is actively promoting hydrogen production and infrastructure development through various initiatives. In 2023, the government launched the National Green Hydrogen Mission, aiming to position India as a leader in green hydrogen production, usage, and export. Here are some key goals of this mission:

Incentives for Production: The government plans to provide incentives for manufacturers of electrolysis technology, which is essential for producing green hydrogen from renewable energy. This support will help reduce production costs.
Mandating Green Hydrogen Use: Certain sectors, such as steel and fertilizers, may be required to use a minimum amount of green hydrogen.
Supportive Policies: The government is working on policies and partnerships to encourage green hydrogen exports and develop the necessary infrastructure for its use.

The National Logistics Policy (NLP) also aims to establish multi-modal infrastructure, including hydrogen refueling stations along key transportation routes. This focus on technology adoption may drive research and development in hydrogen fuel cell technology and green hydrogen production.

How Do Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles and Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engines Work?

Hydrogen internal combustion engines (ICEs) operate similarly to traditional diesel engines, but they burn hydrogen instead of diesel. These engines emit up to 99% less carbon than diesel engines, making them nearly zero-emission technologies. However, hydrogen ICEs still produce some nitrogen oxides (NOx) and require spark plugs for ignition. Safety measures are also more stringent for hydrogen engines due to the volatility of hydrogen fuel.

Environmental Impact: Is Hydrogen Truly a Greener Choice?

Hydrogen is often seen as a clean fuel because it produces only water when burned. However, the overall environmental impact depends on how the hydrogen is made. If it comes from renewable sources, like wind or solar energy, it can be very green. But if it's produced from fossil fuels, it can still harm the environment. Additionally, hydrogen requires energy for production and transport. While it has great potential for reducing carbon emissions, we must ensure sustainable practices in its production to truly make it a greener choice for the future.

Conclusion

Hydrogen trucks are an exciting development in the push for cleaner transportation in India. Although they are still in the early stages, the potential benefits are significant. Hydrogen trucks could revolutionize the commercial vehicle industry from quick refuelling times to lower emissions. With government support and increasing interest from manufacturers, the future of hydrogen trucks looks promising. As infrastructure develops and technology improves, we may soon see a more significant presence of hydrogen-powered vehicles on Indian roads.