The Indian Army has embarked on a path of environmental sustainability by embracing hydrogen fuel cell technology for heavy-duty e-mobility. In a significant development, the force received a state-of-the-art green hydrogen fuel cell bus from IndianOil, India?s largest state-run refiner and fuel retailer, to be deployed in Delhi.

This initiative, marked by an MoU signing ceremony at the National War Memorial, India Gate, witnessed the collaboration between the Army and IndianOil in testing and deploying hydrogen fuel cell technology for heavy-duty e-mobility. Army Chief Gen. Manoj Pande and IndianOil Chairman S M Vaidya presided over the event, signaling a joint commitment towards a greener future.

The trial run of the hydrogen fuel cell bus underscores the Army's dedication to reducing its carbon footprint. As one of the largest consumers of hydrocarbons, the Army has been actively pursuing sustainability measures, including renewable energy adoption and energy efficiency enhancements.

"The Indian Army is committed to exploring and adopting innovative technologies that enhance our operational capabilities while ensuring environmental sustainability. We will be testing one of the hydrogen buses, and I must thank IndianOil for choosing the Indian Army as their partner," said Gen. Pande, highlighting the strategic partnership between the two entities.

IndianOil's Chairman, Vaidya, described the collaboration as a "landmark step towards a greener and more sustainable future," emphasizing IndianOil's existing endeavors in the field of new-age mobility solutions. Currently, IndianOil operates 15 fuel cell buses in the Delhi-NCR region, accumulating significant mileage and paving the way for sustainable transportation.

The project aims to evaluate the performance of fuel cell electric buses in the challenging climatic conditions of Delhi-NCR. It will analyze the impact of local fuel and air quality on fuel cell systems and vehicles while assessing their effectiveness, longevity, and operational reliability for public fleet utilization.

A statement from the company highlighted the initiative's significance in advancing green hydrogen and fuel cell technologies in India, setting a precedent for future collaborations in sustainable transportation.

The partnership between the Indian Army and IndianOil represents a stride towards a cleaner, greener future, underscoring the importance of innovation and collaboration in addressing environmental challenges while enhancing operational capabilities.