Hydrogen energy is rapidly emerging as a key pillar of the global clean-fuel transition, and its potential extends far beyond passenger cars. In India, this shift is gaining momentum as Toyota, in partnership with the government-run National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), is set to begin extensive testing of the country’s first hydrogen-powered car, the Toyota Mirai. The trials will evaluate the vehicle’s performance under varying driving and weather conditions, helping determine how quickly India can adopt hydrogen-powered mobility. The initiative is also part of a wider plan to expand hydrogen use in heavy transport vehicles.
While hydrogen cars are still in the early stage of adoption, the fuel is already transforming multiple sectors across the world. Governments, industries, and technology companies are investing heavily in hydrogen-based solutions, making it central to future energy systems.
Expanding Use in Buses, Trucks and Trains
Hydrogen-powered buses and trucks are already running in significant numbers across Europe, Japan, and South Korea. In India, trials for hydrogen buses have begun in Delhi and Bengaluru, and Indian Railways is preparing to test the nation’s first hydrogen train. The country’s first hydrogen-powered boat has already been launched in Varanasi. These vehicles generate no pollution and offer competitive operating costs, making them strong alternatives to diesel or CNG.
Hydrogen in Heavy Industries: Steel, Cement and Refineries
Hydrogen is proving transformative for decarbonizing heavy industries such as steel and cement, which traditionally rely on coal and natural gas. Green hydrogen offers a clean and efficient replacement, enabling the production of low-carbon materials like green steel. Several global steel manufacturers have already adopted hydrogen-based technology, and India’s Ministry of Steel is actively promoting pilot projects in this direction. While hydrogen has long been used in refineries and chemical plants, industries are now shifting toward green hydrogen to reduce emissions and long-term costs.
Growing Prospects in Aerospace and Shipping
The aviation sector is one of the most carbon-intensive in the world. Major companies including Airbus and Boeing are developing hydrogen-based aircraft technologies as a long-term solution for cleaner air travel. Similarly, the shipping industry is exploring hydrogen and its derivatives such as ammonia to power future cargo ships. Large vessels are expected to transition to these fuels in the coming years as countries push for lower-emission maritime transport.
Why Hydrogen Is Viewed as the Future
Hydrogen produces zero tailpipe emissions, can be generated from renewable sources, and is suitable for long-distance, high-load applications where battery-electric systems face limitations. Its ability to store and transport energy efficiently makes it a strong candidate for large-scale decarbonization across transportation, industry, and infrastructure.
With growing investment, advancing technology, and government support, hydrogen is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the next era of clean mobility and sustainable industrial growth.
