Hyundai Motor India (HMIL) has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) to explore the feasibility of widespread adoption of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in India.

As part of the collaboration, Hyundai has delivered a Hyundai Nexo, a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle, to Indian Oil for real-world testing on Indian roads. The Nexo was first introduced in India at the Auto Expo 2020 and was showcased again at the Auto Expo 2023, underlining Hyundai’s commitment to hydrogen-powered mobility in the Indian market. However, India currently lacks a widespread hydrogen refuelling infrastructure.

The MoU outlines a two-year trial period, during which Hyundai and Indian Oil will assess the Nexo’s performance over an estimated 40,000 km. The trial will also include a total cost of ownership (TCO) evaluation, including maintenance costs, to gain insights into the economic and environmental advantages of hydrogen vehicles in India.

Unsoo Kim, managing director of HMIL, emphasized, “Together, we aim to unlock the potential of green hydrogen as a transformative energy source, making it accessible, affordable, and sustainable. This partnership will play a crucial role in demonstrating hydrogen as a viable alternative fuel in the future.”

Other major Indian automakers, including Tata Motors, Ashok Leyland, and Mahindra & Mahindra, are also exploring hydrogen fuel cell technology. Recently, Tata Motors began trials of India’s first hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks, with trials set to last 24 months. Ashok Leyland is developing hydrogen-powered trucks with plans for a commercial launch by October 2026, while Mahindra & Mahindra has been laying the groundwork for future advancements in fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).