Tata Motors has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA), Tuticorin, to deploy 40 Green Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine (H2 ICE) prime movers—marking one of India’s most significant steps toward decarbonising port logistics. The agreement was finalised in the presence of Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
Under the MoU, Tata Motors will commence trials with a hydrogen-powered prime mover and subsequently phase in 40 H2 ICE trucks over the next two years. The project is funded by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, underscoring the government’s commitment to accelerating green hydrogen adoption across India’s maritime ecosystem.
Calling the partnership a “transformative step,” VOCPA Chairperson Mr. Susanta Kumar Purohit said the deployment of hydrogen-powered trucks will significantly decarbonise port operations. “This initiative will set a benchmark for sustainable port-led logistics in India. To support the induction of these trucks, we are progressing plans to establish a 2 MW electrolyser and a dedicated hydrogen refuelling station,” he added.
Mr. Rajesh Kaul, Vice President & Business Head – Trucks, Tata Motors, described the collaboration as a major milestone in real-world hydrogen trucking. “Over several months, we have worked closely with the port authorities to assess pathways for hydrogen vehicles in cargo-handling applications. This pilot will help evaluate TCO parity and showcase how green hydrogen can support India’s transition to cleaner port logistics.”
The hydrogen fleet will be based on the Tata Prima 55-tonne prime mover platform, engineered for sustainable, high-performance, heavy-duty applications. Equipped with the premium Prima cabin and advanced driver-assist features, the trucks are designed to enhance driver comfort, reduce fatigue, and improve safety and productivity.
Tata Motors has been accelerating alternative-fuel innovation across its commercial vehicle portfolio, spanning battery-electric, CNG, LNG, hydrogen ICE and hydrogen fuel cell technologies. The company began hydrogen truck trials across key freight corridors last year and has already deployed 15 hydrogen FCEV buses in India.
