India is accelerating its commitment to decarbonize the freight sector, as the office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India released a key report, "ZET Adoption in India and Its Impact on Emission and Energy." While the report primarily focuses on Battery Electric Trucks (BETs) as the immediate zero-emission solution for Medium and Heavy-Duty Trucks (M&HDTs), it subtly underscores green hydrogen's crucial long-term role in achieving India’s ambitious net-zero targets.

The report projects substantial emission and fuel consumption reductions by mid-century through accelerated ZET adoption, vital for a sector driving nearly 70% of India's logistics. Professor Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser, stated, "The electrification of freight transport will play a transformative role, creating pathways for cleaner transportation in India."

Despite current high green hydrogen costs and limited infrastructure, India's National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) signals a robust future for hydrogen in heavy-duty transport. Unlike BETs, hydrogen fuel cell (FCEVs) and internal combustion engine (H2-ICE) vehicles offer advantages for long-haul freight, including extended range and faster refueling.

Under the NGHM, backed by ₹19,744 crore, India aims for 5 MMTPA green hydrogen production by 2030, supported by 125 GW renewable energy. Pilot projects are underway with major players like Tata Motors, Ashok Leyland, Reliance Industries and state-owned oil companies, trialing hydrogen-powered trucks and buses and developing refueling infrastructure. The goal is to drive down production costs to $1.5/kg by 2030 enhancing competitiveness.

The report’s emphasis on early-stage interventions and incentives is expected to benefit the entire ZET ecosystem, fostering green hydrogen's eventual widespread adoption. India's strategy is clear: leverage BETs now while aggressively investing in green hydrogen to secure a sustainable, self-reliant and net-zero future for its transport sector.

Source

The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to GoI releases the report on “ZET Adoption in India and Its Impact on Emission and Energy”