Bengaluru, 26 February 2026: Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOCPA), Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, to deploy 40 Green Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine (H2 ICE) heavy-duty trucks at the port. The MoU was signed in the presence of Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, highlighting the government’s focus on sustainable transport solutions.
Under the agreement, Tata Motors will start trials with a single hydrogen-powered prime mover, followed by the phased deployment of H2 ICE trucks over the next two years. The initiative is supported by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, signalling India’s commitment to net-zero emissions and green energy adoption in port operations.
Mr. Susanta Kumar Purohit, Chairperson, VOCPA, said, “Our partnership with Tata Motors is a transformative step for VOC Port’s sustainability goals. Green hydrogen-powered trucks will help decarbonise cargo handling and set a benchmark for sustainable port logistics in India. We are also planning a 2 MW electrolyzer and dedicated hydrogen refueling station to support these trucks, reinforcing VOC Port’s role as a leader in the green hydrogen ecosystem.”
Mr. Rajesh Kaul, Vice President and Business Head – Trucks, Tata Motors, added, “This collaboration brings hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucking into real-world port operations. The pilot will demonstrate the benefits of hydrogen trucks, assess total cost of ownership parity, and support India’s transition to cleaner logistics solutions.”
The fleet will feature Tata Motors Prima 55-tonne prime movers, designed for high-performance, cost-efficient, and sustainable transport. These trucks offer a premium cabin, advanced driver-assist systems, and safety features that enhance driver comfort, productivity, and operational efficiency.
Tata Motors has been at the forefront of alternative fuel technologies, including battery-electric, CNG, LNG, hydrogen ICE, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Its portfolio spans trucks, buses, vans, and small commercial vehicles. In 2025, Tata Motors began hydrogen truck trials across major freight corridors in India and has successfully deployed 15 hydrogen fuel cell buses under a government tender.
This MoU reinforces Tata Motors’ commitment to sustainable mobility and positions VOC Port as a pioneer in green hydrogen logistics, setting a model for other ports and industries in India to follow.
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