India’s Green Hydrogen Mission and the Rise of Hydrogen Cars and Trains: Revolutionizing Transportation

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Throughout our lives, we may have traveled by various means, including trains. These trains predominantly run on diesel fuel, while some modern ones utilize electricity. However, both fuels come with their disadvantages. Diesel fuel is less powerful, short-lived, expensive, and emits pollutants. Electric fuel, although more expensive and requiring additional power sources, offers limited availability and creates pollution during electricity generation.


Recognizing the drawbacks of these traditional fuels 

the world is now turning its attention towards hydrogen as an alternative. Hydrogen fuel boasts numerous advantages, such as being clean, emitting only water after consumption, having no CO2 emissions, offering substantial energy capacity, and being a reliable power source. Moreover, it has significant storage capabilities and produces minimal noise pollution.

Cars to Rockets, Hydrogen Fuel Finds Diverse Applications

Hydrogen fuel is being harnessed in a range of applications, including hydrogen cars, rockets, ships, spacecraft, and even trains. The introduction of hydrogen cars dates back to 1966 with the Chevrolet Electrovan, and in 2014, India saw the launch of its first hydrogen fuel electric vehicle, the Toyota Mirai. Last year, the Union Ministry for Road Transport and Highways initiated a pilot project for Hydrogen-based advanced Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

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Cabinet Approves the Green Hydrogen Mission with Visionary Targets for 2030

Furthering the commitment towards hydrogen, this year the Cabinet approved the GREEN HYDROGEN MISSION with ambitious targets until 2030. The mission aims to develop a green hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 million metric tonnes per annum and an associated renewable energy capacity addition of about 125 GW. Additionally, it seeks to attract substantial investments, create numerous jobs, reduce fossil fuel imports, and significantly mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.

Companies Lead the Way in Hydrogen Electric Vehicles while Governments Embrace Hydrogen Train

While several companies like Toyota, BMW, Hyundai, and HUV have introduced hydrogen electric fuel cars, the future holds even greater potential. Many countries are eagerly exploring the possibilities of hydrogen cars and trains. Recognizing the urgency to reduce carbon emissions, governments worldwide are eyeing the replacement of outdated trains from the 1950s and 60s with hydrogen trains.

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Germany’s Coradia iLint, China’s Pioneering Train, and India’s Upcoming Vande Metro

Germany took a significant step by launching the Coradia iLint, its first hydrogen fuel train. With a range of up to 1000 km and a maximum speed of 140 km/h, this train came at a cost of $86 million. China also joined the hydrogen train revolution by introducing Asia’s first hydrogen-powered train, modified with modern technologies to significantly reduce carbon emissions. India has plans to launch its first hydrogen-powered train, named Vande Metro, by December 2023.

As we look towards the future, the adoption of hydrogen fuels in cars and trains holds immense promise. With the pressing need to combat climate change, alternative fuel sources have become imperative. While hydrogen does have some limitations, it undoubtedly contributes to a cleaner environment compared to fossil fuels. The world’s transition to hydrogen fuels represents a significant step towards a sustainable and greener future for generations to come.

“Article Credit- Skywalker”


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