Ballard Power Systems has announced a collaboration with Adani Enterprises Limited and Ashok Leyland to undertake a pilot project to create a hydrogen fuel cell electric truck (FCET) for mining logistics and transportation. The FCET will be introduced in India in 2023.
This partnership will result in Asia’s first hydrogen-powered mining vehicle. AEL, a business focusing on both mining operations and developing green hydrogen projects for sourcing, transporting and building out hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, will lead the demonstration project. The FCmoveTM fuel cell engine for the hydrogen truck will be supplied by Ballard, an industry leading PEM fuel cell engine manufacturer, while the vehicle chassis and technical support will be provided by Ashok Leyland, one of the world’s major bus manufacturers.
The Adani Group previously announced it plans to invest more than $50 billion over the next ten years in green hydrogen and associated ecosystems corresponding to a capacity of up to 3 million tons of green hydrogen annually.
“This pioneering and ambitious green hydrogen project holds a strong promise for India’s future energy self-reliance and is consistent with the vision of Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, of accelerating the use of hydrogen-powered fuel cell technology in the commercial transport system. This experience of handling hydrogen as a fuel for commercial fleet not only accelerate the introduction of hydrogen technology for the mining and logistics sector in the country but will also enable other businesses to opt for long-term sustainable solutions transitioning fleets in ports, airports and in their industrial operations.” said, Vinay Prakash, Director, Adani Enterprises Limited and CEO, Adani Natural Resources.
The hydrogen mining truck will weigh 55 tonnes, feature three hydrogen tanks, a working range of 200 kilometres, and be powered by Ballard’s 120kW PEM fuel cell technology.
“After signing a memorandum of understanding with the Adani Group last year, we are eager to move our partnership forward and welcome the chance to cooperate with cutting-edge businesses like Adani,” said Randy MacEwen, CEO, Ballard Power Systems. “Our technology offers a strong value proposition for their heavy-duty mining truck with our zero emission engines providing long range, rapid refueling and heavy payload capabilities.”
“Ashok Leyland is excited to collaborate with Adani and Ballard to bring out fuel cell commercial vehicles in the mining and logistics sectors in India,” said Dr. N. Saravanan, CTO, Ashok Leyland. “With our track record of developing unique and new products, Ballard’s technological expertise in fuel cells, and Adani’s unwavering dedication to hydrogen, there is a significant opportunity for India to decarbonise both goods and passenger transportation.”
