Indian Army Favours Hydrogen-Powered HMV Trucks in Non-Combat Operations, Citing EV Charging Limitations and Operational Costs

The Indian Army, while embracing the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) for non-combat operations, has announced that it will not be incorporating battery-operated Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV) trucks into its fleet.

This decision is based on challenges related to the lack of adequate charging infrastructure and the high operational costs associated with battery-powered vehicles for extensive military use.

Instead, the Army is taking a pioneering approach by exploring hydrogen-powered technology, collaborating with Indian automotive giants like Ashok Leyland and the Tata Group.

The decision to opt for hydrogen over battery-powered EVs stems from several key factors:

• Charging Infrastructure: The vast and often remote terrains where the military operates lack the robust charging network necessary to support a large fleet of battery-powered HMV trucks. Hydrogen, on the other hand, can be produced and stored at military bases, offering a more practical solution for sustained operations.
• Operational Flexibility: Hydrogen trucks can be designed with flex-fuel capabilities, allowing them to run on hydrogen or switch to diesel or other fuels as needed. This flexibility is vital for military operations where supply lines may be disrupted or in diverse environmental conditions.
• Long-term Costs: While the initial investment in hydrogen technology may be higher, the long-term operational costs, especially in areas with limited access to electricity, could be lower compared to maintaining a fleet of battery EVs.

As of October 2020, the Indian Army had over 15,000 trucks in active service, ranging from light to heavy-duty vehicles.These trucks form the backbone of the military's logistics, transporting personnel, equipment, and supplies across diverse terrains and conditions. The Army regularly replaces older vehicles with newer models, providing an opportunity to integrate new technologies like hydrogen propulsion.

This move towards hydrogen-powered trucks reflects the Indian Army's commitment to adopting innovative and sustainable solutions for its logistical needs. By partnering with leading Indian automotive companies, the Army is not only enhancing its operational capabilities but also contributing to the development of indigenous hydrogen technology, aligning with India's broader push for self-reliance in the defence sector.

 

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[Kiran Kumar]

Now, Indian Army wants to call themselves as Green Army? Silly things will be done in Indian Army only.

 

[Instant Karma]

Army should always use already proven technology and not equipment's and technology under development.

 

[Bikramjeet Goswami]

Storing and transporting hydrogen is very difficult. Without the ecosystem its pointless to shift - a meaningless expenses.

 

[beencensured]

Army should always use already proven technology and not equipment's and technology under development.

They cannot depend on petrol and hydrogen is unlimited.

 

[Kira]

Hydrogen is highly flammable, it's quite a task to store it under safe conditions even at normal locations let alone remote military bases which would be in the line of fire in a conflict. Hopefully, the IA has thought this through.

 

[beencensured]

Storing and transporting hydrogen is very difficult. Without the ecosystem its pointless to shift - a meaningless expenses.

So, if war breaks out and we must depend on petrol? Or should strive to find alternatives. Hydrogen is a powerful fuel and alternative. There is biodiesel, coal to liquid, and coal to gas, ethanol, and many other alternatives. But India cannot depend on foreign oil as we produce none, we have to think of future too.