Tata Motors Deploys 40 Hydrogen Trucks at Tuticorin

Tata Motors has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA) to deploy 40 hydrogen-powered H2 ICE prime movers at Tuticorin port in Tamil Nadu. The agreement, witnessed by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, is part of a strategic push toward green logistics and sustainable port operations in India. The project is funded by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and will be implemented in phases over the next two years.

Phased Deployment and Project Planning

Tata Motors will begin with trial runs of a hydrogen-powered prime mover at Tuticorin port. After successful testing, the company will roll out the complete fleet of 40 H2 ICE trucks gradually.

Trial and Phased Rollout

• Initial trials to evaluate truck performance in real port conditions
• Gradual deployment of the full 40-truck fleet over two years

Government Backing

• Entire project funded by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
• Infrastructure support ensures smooth adoption of hydrogen trucks

Tata Prima 55-Tonne Prime Mover

• Selected for high-performance, heavy-duty port operations
• Advanced cabin with driver-assist and safety features to reduce fatigue
• Cost-efficient transport solution for cargo handling at the port

Hydrogen Infrastructure and Sustainability

Tuticorin port will be equipped with state-of-the-art hydrogen refuelling facilities to support the new fleet.

Electrolyser Installation

• 2 MW electrolyser planned for on-site green hydrogen production

Hydrogen Refuelling Station

• Dedicated refuelling setup to ensure uninterrupted operations of H2 ICE trucks

Green Logistics Benefits

• Reduced carbon emissions from cargo handling
• Supports India’s commitment to sustainable port operations and alternative fuel adoption

Tata Motors’ Hydrogen Portfolio

• Testing hydrogen-powered trucks along major freight corridors since 2025
• Includes hydrogen ICE trucks, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, battery electric trucks, CNG, and LNG options
• Tata Motors is also operating 15 hydrogen fuel cell electric buses in India

Key Features and Operational Advantages

The upgraded Tata hydrogen trucks bring performance and efficiency to port operations. Key highlights include:

• 40 hydrogen H2 ICE prime movers deployed for heavy-duty port logistics
• Tata Prima 55-tonne truck selected for high load capacity and cost efficiency
• Advanced cabin with driver-assist technologies for safety and comfort
• 2 MW electrolyser and hydrogen refuelling station at Tuticorin port
• Phased rollout over two years for performance evaluation in real conditions
• Government-funded project under Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
• Contribution to decarbonising port cargo handling and promoting green mobility

This partnership between Tata Motors and VOCPA is a landmark initiative in India’s journey toward sustainable freight transport, combining advanced hydrogen truck technology with dedicated green infrastructure. The phased deployment ensures real-world testing before full-scale adoption, positioning Tuticorin port as a model for clean and efficient cargo logistics.