The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Indian Oil Corporation (Indian Oil) to launch a green hydrogen pilot project. The agreement establishes a collaborative framework for developing and testing low carbon hydrogen solutions for industrial use. The pilot targets demonstration of production, handling and application pathways that could support refinery operations and transport fuel decarbonisation. The partners will prioritise pathways that reduce lifecycle emissions and improve energy efficiency across refinery and transport applications.

The collaboration will focus on validating technologies across the hydrogen value chain, including renewable electricity integration, electrolyser testing and fuel handling systems for end use. The partners intend to assess operational safety, material compatibility and performance under practical conditions rather than laboratory settings. The pilot will also gather data to inform standards, safety protocols and commercial feasibility studies. The project will be instrumented to capture operational metrics and to enable data driven assessment of cost and performance parameters.

The memorandum is positioned as a practical step towards achieving broader decarbonisation goals within the energy and mobility sectors. ARAI will leverage its vehicle and fuel testing expertise while Indian Oil will provide refinery interfaces and supply chain insights. The partnership is expected to support technology validation, workforce readiness and the creation of a roadmap for scaling green hydrogen solutions. Results are intended to inform industry stakeholders and to guide investment choices without predetermining commercial outcomes.

Implementation will proceed through phased activities that include site preparations, equipment commissioning and monitored trials, with scope for iterative optimisation. Stakeholder engagement and regulatory coordination will be integral as the partners translate pilot findings into policy and investment recommendations. The agreement signals increased private sector momentum for hydrogen deployment and sets a precedent for further collaborative pilots. The exercise may also foster partnerships across suppliers, original equipment manufacturers and service providers to accelerate deployment.