In a major push towards India’s net-zero goals, Tata Motors has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA) to deploy 40 Green Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine (H2 ICE) powered heavy-duty trucks at the port. The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal.
Under the agreement, Tata Motors will begin trials with a hydrogen-powered prime mover, followed by phased deployment over the next two years. The project will be funded by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. VOCPA Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit said the move would significantly reduce carbon emissions in cargo handling operations and position the port as a leader in green maritime infrastructure. The port is also planning to set up a 2 MW electrolyzer and a dedicated hydrogen refuelling station.
Rajesh Kaul, Vice President and Business Head – Trucks, Tata Motors, said the collaboration marks a key milestone in introducing hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks into real-world port operations. The fleet will include Tata Motors’ Prima 55-tonne prime movers, designed for high-performance and sustainable transportation. The company has already begun hydrogen truck trials across key freight corridors and deployed hydrogen fuel cell buses in India. In Kolkata, the move signals growing momentum for green logistics in eastern India. With ports and industrial corridors in the region exploring cleaner transport solutions, stakeholders believe hydrogen-powered heavy vehicles could gradually gain acceptance if operational costs and infrastructure challenges are addressed.