Hyundai NEXO to undergo 40,000 km real-world trials as part of a landmark hydrogen mobility initiative

In a bold move toward decarbonizing India’s mobility sector, Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. (IndianOil) to explore the viability of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) for mass adoption in the Indian market. As part of this collaboration, HMIL has handed over its flagship Hyundai NEXO — India’s first hydrogen-powered FCEV — to IndianOil for extensive real-world trials.

The initiative marks a significant milestone in Hyundai’s roadmap for green hydrogen adoption in India and is expected to generate valuable insights over the next two years. The testing will cover an estimated 40,000 kilometers under Indian driving conditions, assessing the operational reliability, longevity, and overall cost-effectiveness of hydrogen fuel cell technology.

“As India’s foremost smart mobility solutions provider, it is our firm resolve to innovate with future-ready technology,” said Mr. Unsoo Kim, Managing Director of HMIL. “This partnership with IndianOil is a major step forward in demonstrating the real-world potential of hydrogen as a clean and sustainable alternative fuel source.”

IndianOil, a leader in India’s energy sector, will conduct a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) assessment, evaluating operational and maintenance expenses by simulating private vehicle usage. The insights will aid in understanding the long-term economic and ecological impact of FCEVs in the Indian landscape.

“Hydrogen fuel is a vital component of India’s clean energy roadmap,” said Dr. Alok Sharma, Director (R&D) and Board Member, IndianOil. “Fuel cell technology has immense potential in achieving net carbon neutrality, and this collaboration with Hyundai will accelerate India’s journey towards a greener mobility ecosystem.”

Towards a hydrogen-powered future

Globally recognized for its diversified propulsion technologies — from ICE, CNG, Flex-Fuel, and Hybrid to Electric and Hydrogen — Hyundai is paving the way for sustainable mobility solutions across the world. In India, the partnership with IndianOil is expected to foster a robust hydrogen ecosystem and provide a strong foundation for policy, infrastructure, and consumer adoption of hydrogen-powered vehicles.

Additionally, HMIL is also advancing its green hydrogen vision through its ongoing collaboration with IIT Madras, where a Hydrogen Innovation Centre is under development. The center is expected to become a hub for R&D, startups, and OEMs, allowing stakeholders to test and refine hydrogen technologies in a controlled environment — a first of its kind in India.

This MoU signifies more than just a technical partnership. It represents a shared commitment to achieving carbon neutrality, strengthening energy security, and promoting next-gen clean mobility solutions for India.