Truck Makers in India Switch to Cleaner Fuels Like Electric, Hydrogen, and LNG

Key Highlights:

• CV makers in India are shifting from diesel to cleaner fuels like electric, hydrogen, LNG, and CNG.
• Tata Motors is testing hydrogen trucks on routes such as Mumbai-Pune and Ahmedabad-Rajkot.
• Tata’s 55-tonne electric truck has a 450kWh battery, 330 km range, and dual-gun charging.
• Ikea and BLR Logistiks saw a 16% cost saving after 100 trips with an electric heavy truck.
• Ashok Leyland is running hydrogen trucks on a pilot and also showcased the country’s first electric port terminal tractor at the Auto Expo.

With the Indian government aiming to cut logistics costs and promote sustainable freight movement, commercial vehicle (CV) manufacturers are moving away from diesel and embracing cleaner fuel technologies. The change is being driven by policy direction, growing environmental concerns, and the need to stay competitive in the evolving logistics landscape.

A Push from the Government

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has clearly stated the importance of adopting alternative fuels, such as electric, hydrogen, and LNG. The goal is to align India’s freight systems with global emission standards and reduce the cost burden on the logistics industry, which remains heavily reliant on diesel.

CV Makers Go Multi-Fuel

Realizing that no single technology can serve all sectors, CV makers are now betting on a mix of solutions. From battery-electric to hydrogen, LNG, CNG, and flex-fuel options, the industry is building a flexible ecosystem to cater to different routes, loads, and sectors.

Tata Motors Leading the Way

Tata Motors is taking bold steps with its multi-fuel lineup. The company’s portfolio now includes:

1. Battery-electric trucks
2. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles
3. LNG and CNG-powered models
4. Flex-fuel systems

Tata has begun trial runs of its hydrogen-powered trucks on key transport routes such as Mumbai to Pune and Ahmedabad to Rajkot. These include heavy-duty models like the 55-tonne and 28-tonne Prima trucks.

For the electric segment, Tata is running a 55-tonne electric Prima truck in steel and cement transport. This truck is equipped with a powerful 450kWh battery, offers a range of 330 km, and supports fast dual-gun charging. For lighter tasks, Tata’s Prima E.28K electric tipper is currently being used in mining and infrastructure projects.

Ashok Leyland Expands Fuel Choices

Ashok Leyland, part of the Hinduja Group, is also adapting fast. The company claims to have the largest pilot fleet of hydrogen trucks globally and has launched several electric vehicles, including:

1. Boss EV truck (14-19 tonne)
2. A 55-tonne electric tractor-trailer
3. India’s first electric port terminal tractor

These launches show its commitment to being a key player in future-ready freight. Though late to the LNG market, Ashok Leyland plans to launch new models this year to fill the gap.

IKEA's Electric Freight Success

Private players are also stepping in. In October 2024, BLR Logistiks and Ikea Supply launched India’s first electric heavy-duty truck. By April 2025, after 100 trips, Ikea reported a 16% cost saving, highlighting the long-term economic benefits of green freight.

Also Read: FADA Sales Report June 2025: CV sales increased by 6.60% YoY

CMV360 Says

The Indian CV industry is undergoing a major transformation. While diesel may still dominate in the short term, electric, hydrogen, and LNG are quickly gaining ground. With support from the government and growing interest from logistics companies, this shift is not just necessary, it’s inevitable.