In a significant step toward decarbonising India’s port-led logistics ecosystem, Tata Motors has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA) to deploy 40 green hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks at the Tuticorin port in Tamil Nadu.
The agreement, signed in the presence of Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, marks one of the first large-scale introductions of hydrogen internal combustion engine (H2 ICE) trucks in an operational Indian port environment.
Phased rollout over two years
Under the MoU, Tata Motors will begin with trials of a hydrogen-powered prime mover before rolling out 40 H2 ICE-powered trucks in phases over the next two years. The initiative is being funded by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, underscoring the Government of India’s commitment to fast-tracking green energy adoption across critical infrastructure sectors.
The deployment is expected to significantly reduce emissions from cargo handling and container movement operations within the port premises — traditionally dominated by diesel-powered heavy vehicles.
Building a green hydrogen ecosystem
According to VOCPA chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit the induction of hydrogen-powered trucks will play a pivotal role in decarbonising cargo operations and positioning the port as a benchmark for sustainable logistics in India.
To support the transition, the port authority is simultaneously working on establishing a 2 MW electrolyser facility and a dedicated hydrogen refuelling station. These investments aim to create a self-sustaining green hydrogen ecosystem within the port, reinforcing its ambition to emerge as a leader in sustainable maritime infrastructure.
Prima platform at the core
The fleet will comprise the Tata Motors Prima 55-tonne prime mover, engineered for long-haul, high-performance applications. Equipped with the premium Prima cabin and advanced driver-assist safety features, the trucks are designed to enhance driver comfort, reduce fatigue and improve operational productivity while maintaining stringent safety standards.
Tata Motors VP & business head trucks Rajesh Kaul described the collaboration as a milestone in bringing hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucking into real-world applications. He noted that extensive groundwork had been undertaken with port authorities to evaluate hydrogen trucks in cargo handling scenarios. The pilot, he added, would help assess total cost of ownership (TCO) parity and demonstrate the viability of green hydrogen in transforming port logistics.
Expanding alternative fuel portfolio
The initiative builds on Tata Motors’ broader alternative fuel strategy. The company has been actively developing commercial vehicles powered by battery electric, CNG, LNG, hydrogen internal combustion and hydrogen fuel cell technologies. In 2025, it commenced hydrogen truck trials across key freight corridors in India and has already deployed hydrogen fuel cell electric buses (FCEVs) on Indian roads following a government tender win.