The Indian government is aggressively pursuing a shift towards sustainable mobility, recognizing the country’s dependence on imported crude oil. With 87% of its crude oil needs met through imports, a significant transition is required. As a key part of this transformation, the government is prioritizing alternative fuels. During a recent MOU exchange ceremony between Toyota Kirloskar Motor and Ohmium International, Nitin Gadkari emphasized this strategic shift.
Minister Gadkari highlighted the need for a comprehensive strategy to promote ethanol-blended fuels, biodiesel, compressed biogas, and green hydrogen. The government is making strides in all these areas to facilitate a move towards sustainable mobility. A major initiative involves large-scale hydrogen truck trials across critical freight corridors, supported by an investment of approximately Rs 500 crore through the National Green Hydrogen mission. The focus is on green hydrogen, with an emphasis on making the economics of the technology viable. The government is encouraging innovations that utilize municipal solid waste, organic matter, and bamboo plantations for hydrogen production. The government is also working on various clean fuel technologies, including a nationwide rollout of 20% ethanol fuel blending to reduce crude oil costs.
Plans are underway to support hybrid cars compatible with ethanol and to evaluate the commercial viability of isobutanol-diesel blends. The government is also fostering the development of compressed biogas networks in rural regions. To accelerate the adoption of sustainable mobility solutions, the government has approved the use of 100% ethanol in flex-fuel vehicles. In addition, the government is developing new IC retro fitment kits that would enable IC engines to work with Hydrogen and advanced Biofuels. Nitin Gadkari noted that the Indian auto industry’s transformation is valued at Rs 22 lakh crore, making it the world’s third largest.
This information was shared during a ceremony where Toyota and Ohmium partnered to develop hydrogen power solutions. Toyota will use its expertise in Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles to provide sustainable fuel solutions. Toyota will supply advanced fuel cell modules, system integration and technical consultations. Ohmium will design and evaluate the performance of Hydrogen driven Micro Grid prototypes. This collaboration supports both hydrogen applications and the Make in India initiative.