Upcoming Hydrogen Cars in India
Hydrogen cars are at the forefront of eco-friendly transportation, challenging traditional combustion engines. Two key technologies drive this shift: hydrogen internal combustion engines and fuel cells. In the former, existing engines adapt to burn hydrogen, offering performance similar to that of traditional engines. Meanwhile, fuel cells utilise an electrochemical process, converting hydrogen into electricity with zero emissions. Hydrogen-powered vehicles, including cars, SUVs, trucks, and buses, present a promising future. While there are no Hydrogen Vehicles presently available in the Indian Market, we are here to present the list of upcoming Hydrogen Cars in India.
While the initial model was launched in 2014, the car gets a revamp from time to time and is currently having its second generation on the roads in various countries. It has quick refueling times and is one of the first publicly available hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. One of the major advantages of this vehicle is that it is having the experience. Launched early, it has been tested on roads and the shortcomings have been removed to a great experience. The car provides a smooth driving experience along with the signature Toyota Comfort. Not the best looking Sedan, but if you want to take a look into the future, Toyota Mirai is the way to move ahead with.
Engine: 3698 cc
Power: 152 bhp
Torque: 335 Nm
Transmission: Manual
Fuel: Hydrogen
Range: Up to 646 km on a full tank (5.2kg H2 gas capacity)
Price: Starting from Rs 60 lakh (ex-showroom)
Variants: Available in three trims
Features: 12.3-inch infotainment system, wireless charger, 8-inch digital driver’s display, head-up display, digital rearview mirrors
Safety: 7 airbags, hill assist, brake assist, ABS with EBD, tire pressure monitoring system
Rival: Competes with the Tesla Model S internationally
The Hyundai NEXO is a futuristic hydrogen fuel cell SUV that offers excellent efficiency and advanced technology. Launched in 2018, the NEXO has a dedicated vehicle architecture optimized for its powertrain. With the best fuel cell efficiency in the world, it can drive up to 666 km on a single tank of hydrogen. The NEXO features a sleek and aerodynamic exterior design with flush door handles and active air flaps for improved drag. Inside, it has a spacious interior with eco-friendly materials and a 12.3-inch touchscreen display. Convenient features like ventilated seats, wireless charging and remote smart parking make it highly practical. Safety is also a priority, with Hyundai SmartSense ADAS tech and a strong body structure. While the pricing is not available for the same, you can ensure quick refueling times, and zero emissions. The NEXO is a compelling hydrogen-powered alternative to traditional gasoline and diesel SUVs.
Driving Range: 666 km (WLTP)
Fuel: Hydrogen
Exterior: Streamlined design, aerodynamic features, cascading grille, LED headlamps, full LED rear combination lamps, alloy wheels
Interior: 12.3" widescreen display, best-in-class roominess, steering wheel with paddle shifters, shift-by-wire buttons, 7" LCD information cluster, eco-friendly materials
Performance: Best fuel cell efficiency, cutting-edge fuel cell technology, recuperative braking, quick 5-minute refueling
Connectivity: 12.3" touch-screen navigation, wireless charging, KRELL premium sound system
Convenience: Heated and air-ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, ample boot capacity
Safety: Hyundai Smart Sense, Lane Following Assist (LFA), Blind-Spot Collision-avoidance Assist (BCA), Forward Collision-avoidance Assist (FCA), Blind-Spot View Monitor & Blind Spot Monitoring (BVM & BSM), Remote Smart Park Assist (RSPA)
Air Purification: Zero tailpipe emissions, air filter for micro-particulates, improves air quality during driving
Warranty: 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty
MG showcased their first fuel cell car in India, the Euniq 7 MPV, in the 2023 Auto Expo. The car boasts a range of up to 650 km on a single refill. The Euniq 7 looks similar to MG's Gloster SUV with a big grille in the front. It has sliding rear doors and futuristic looking LED tail lamps. MG says the Euniq 7 can withstand high temperatures of 824 degrees Celsius. The hydrogen fuel tank can store 6.4 kg of hydrogen which allows the car to be refueled in just 7 minutes. MG has not announced if and when the Euniq 7 will launch in India.The fuel cell MPV highlights MG's capabilities in sustainable mobility. It offers long range, quick refueling and zero emissions for an eco-friendly driving experience.
Fuel Technology: Hydrogen Fuel Cell
Range: Up to 650 km
Power Output: 150 kW (approximately 200 bhp)
Hydrogen Tank Capacity: 6.4 kgs
Refueling Time: About 7 minutes
Emission: H2O (Water) as the only byproduct
Temperature Endurance: Can withstand temperatures up to 824 degrees
Exterior Design: Resembles MG Gloster, imposing grille, sleek LED headlamps, dual-tone paint finish (blue and white), sliding doors
Interior Features: 2+2+3 seating configuration, captain seats in the middle row, modern dashboard, panoramic sunroof, digital driver display, electronic parking brakes
Safety: Electronically-operated rear doors, tailgate
To conclude, it is important to know that Hydrogen Cars are the future. While India is far behind in the race compared to first world countries, incentives like the Hydrogen FAME Scheme can help boost this unexplored market. The union government has incentivised the hydrogen vehicle manufacturing industry and a notable example is the use of Toyota Mirai by the Road and Transport Minister of India, to showcase the usability. Stay tuned with Park+ for more such content.