Tata Motors Achieves Major Milestone in Cutting 53,000 Tonnes of CO2 Emissions

Key Highlights:

• Tata Motors is developing three hydrogen-powered vehicle technologies.
• R&D spending increased by 45.1% in FY24 for future technologies.
• CO2 emissions were reduced by 53,000 tonnes, equal to 2.4 million trees annually.
• Targeting 1.0-1.2 million passenger vehicle sales by FY30.
• Launched 'TATVA' for circularity and operates five vehicle scrappage facilities.

Tata Motors reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability efforts and is working across sectors to accomplish its sustainability targets, as demonstrated during Investor Day 2024. India's leading commercial vehicle manufacturer is developing three hydrogen-powered options to achieve net zero emissions.

According to a presentation given at Investor Day 2024, the three choices are hydrogen combustion via ICE, blended fuel engines with hydrogen and CNG, and hydrogen fuel cell technology.

Last year, the automaker handed over the first hydrogen fuel cell-powered buses to Indian Oil Corp Ltd. The oil marketing company operates 15 fuel cell buses in the Delhi-NCR region.

According to the investor presentation, trucks and buses for long haulage and intercity applications with high route predictability and vehicle utilization have a strong potential for using hydrogen powertrains.

Focus on R&D

Tata Motors Ltd. increased its research and development (R&D) investment by 45.1% to Rs 29,398 crore in fiscal year 2024 (FY24), up from Rs 20,265 crore in FY23, according to the company's annual report. This represents a huge increase from the Rs 15,339 crore invested in FY22.

In the company's 79th Annual Report, Shailesh Chandra, MD of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, reported an 8.6% rise in the PV industry over FY23, with the highest-ever sales of 4.2 million vehicles. 

The company is focusing on expanding its electric vehicle capabilities, including flex-fuel powertrains, fuel cell EVs, and hydrogen internal combustion engines (ICE). These initiatives are accompanied by infrastructure investments to support the emerging technology.

According to the firm presentation, it has cut over 53,000 tonnes of CO2 in its activities, the equivalent of 2.4 million trees every year.

Multipronged approach to powertrains

The company is also pursuing a multifaceted approach to powertrains. CNG, for example, is seeing a rapid expansion of refueling infrastructure, with the number of stations expected to rise from roughly 6,000 now to more than 10,000 by 2030. 

Tata Motors is prepared to capitalise on this trend. LNG is another area of attention, with more than 50 operational stations scheduled by the end of the year. 

This expansion is likely to continue, with over 1,000 stations planned by 2027, and Tata Motors is ensuring that its vehicles are compatible with this future fuel source.

Commitment to Renewable Energy

Around 40% of Tata Motors' electricity needs in India are met by renewable sources. The company aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2045 for commercial vehicles and by 2040 for passenger vehicles. 

Tata Motors has aligned its product strategy with the Science-based Target Initiatives (SBTi) and established the Aikyam platform for suppliers and an ESG roadmap for channel partners.

Also Read: Tata Motors Approves Demerger of Commercial Vehicles Business

CMV360 Says

Tata Motors' efforts show a strong commitment to a greener future. By investing in hydrogen power, expanding electric vehicle options, and promoting recycling, the company sets a good example for others.

These actions align with global trends and make Tata Motors a leader in eco-friendly transportation.