Adani Group deploys India’s first hydrogen fuel cell mining truck - powered by Ballard

Multinational conglomerate, Adani Group, has taken a major step towards more sustainable practices in mining logistics by introducing India’s first hydrogen-powered truck, with the intention of gradually replacing its diesel-based fleet with fuel cell alternatives. The initiative is in collaboration with automotive manufacturer Ashok Leyland, and is powered by Ballard's FCmove^®-XD fuel cell engine.

Adani’s zero-emission truck has been developed for cargo transport with capacity to carry up to 40 tons of freight. The 55-ton vehicle has a 200km range and will provide haulage from the Gare Pelma III government mining facility in Chhattisgarh to the state’s power plant. The project aligns with India’s long-term goals around carbon emissions and reducing crude oil imports.

The mining truck utilizes Ballard's 120kW FCmove^®-XD fuel cell engine - a scalable module that delivers class-leading volumetric power density, with an open architecture design that makes it the smallest and lightest fuel cell in its power range. 

The FCmove^®-XD has a design life of 30,000+ hours of operation - equivalent to one million miles in a typical duty cycle for a truck in operation - providing durability and favorable total cost of ownership. Ballard's most powerful fuel cell engine is also integrated in a Ford Trucks F-MAX 44-ton fuel cell electric vehicle, which will undergo testing this year as part of the ZEFES project; as well as powering Applied Hydrogen's 30-ton zero-emission excavator.

Adani's project is a joint effort by the natural resources and new industries branches of its flagship company – Adani Enterprises – with both entities involved in the sourcing of the hydrogen cells to power the mining truck.

“The initiative for hydrogen-powered trucks is a significant step towards Adani Group's commitment to decarbonization and responsible mining. We are creating model mines with minimal environmental impact by incorporating autonomous dozer push technologies, solar power, digital initiatives, and tree transplanters to relocate trees. We aim to ensure affordable and reliable electricity for all while pioneering new standards in sustainable mining practices."

Dr Vinay Prakash Director, Adani Enterprises

Introducing the truck publicly in Raipur on May 10, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai highlighted the state’s commitment to sustainability, with the adoption of such initiatives helping to significantly reduce Chhattisgarh’s carbon footprint and set a new standard for the industry in India.

Adani is enthusiastic about the potential of hydrogen in building its zero-emission fleet for mining, with fuel cells matching diesel trucks for operational range and load capacity, while producing zero harmful emissions and with minimal noise - providing cleaner, safer, and sustainable long-term practices.