Toyota claims that it continues to focus on the hydrogen technology and promotion of the fuel cell module usage across various sectors to enhance wider adoption and achieve scalability. According to the company, the hydrogen fuel cell module provides energy source to serve various applications which is essentially the key to realise competitiveness and the creation of future sustainable hydrogen society. Further to achieve zero CO2 emissions in more challenging applications, such as trucks and heavy transport, trains, buses, aviation, shipping, forklifts and industrial processes, hydrogen will play an important role. Towards this direction, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM), today, announced the supply of its Fuel Cell Module (one unit) to Ashok Leyland to build fuel-cell commercial vehicle in India for proto examination and feasibility study purpose.

When it comes to hydrogen-based electrified vehicle technology, fuel cell module is the heart which powers the hydrogen electric powertrain. Toyota states that given its strong technological capabilities, it intends to move forward in sure-footed steps to promote and enhance the use of fuel-cell modules in India to develop zero carbon emission vehicles.

As per Toyota, its hydrogen fuel cell-based technology can help enable faster shift away from fossil fuels, promoting renewable energy, achieving energy self-reliance and mitigating carbon emissions. Moreover, given India’s energy mix, its unique consumer profile and needs, infrastructure readiness and the government’s diversified efforts towards becoming ‘Atmanirbhar’ in energy by 2047, Toyota claims that it is advancing mobility solutions with greater agility. This is resulting in introducing and supporting multiple clean technology pathways by joining hands with other stakeholders with mutual interests and the aim to contribute to the nation’s carbon neutral targets.

Commenting on the clean mobility initiative, Sudeep S Dalvi, Senior Vice President and Chief Communication Officer of Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “We are extremely happy to supply hydrogen fuel cell module to Ashok Leyland for building fuel cell commercial vehicle for proto examination and feasibility study purpose. Reducing tailpipe emissions and carbon footprint has always been extremely important for us at Toyota, and we are also committed to contribute towards the national target of energy self-reliance. Globally, the energy industry is working on the technological innovations of carbon-neutral fuels, such as hydrogen and biofuels. Through this initiative, we hope to promote a wider use of hydrogen as a fuel which can help to create a hydrogen society in harmony with nature.”

The Government of India announced the National Hydrogen Mission (NHM) in the Union Budget for 2021-2022. NHM has drawn a roadmap for the usage of hydrogen as an energy source. This mission aims to push for the implementation of hydrogen energy that will drive the country in the right direction of making the best out of the renewable energy sector. Aligning with this, Toyota states that it is enhancing its technological strengths to capitalise on the most abundant elements on earth for a better, safer and cleaner alternative fuel option.

Sharing his views, Dr N Saravanan, Chief Technology Officer of Ashok Leyland, said “Ashok Leyland is excited to collaborate with Toyota Kirloskar Motor to bring their globally renowned and proven fuel cell module system to the commercial vehicle sector in India. Ashok Leyland’s track record in bringing innovative and differentiated products, combined with Toyota’s technology leadership in fuel cells, has created a massive opportunity to conduct proto examination and feasibility study towards decarbonising both goods and people transportation.”

The fuel cell electric vehicles use a propulsion system like that of electric vehicles, where energy stored as hydrogen is converted to electricity by the fuel cell. According to Toyota, these FCEV are fuelled with pure hydrogen gas stored in a tank. Similar to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, FCEVs are equipped with other advanced technologies to increase efficiency, such as regenerative braking systems that capture the energy lost during braking, and store it in a battery.

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IVECO, a manufacturer in alternative propulsion, has demonstrated the endurance of its gas-powered heavy vehicles with the IVECO S-Way CNG truck travelling over 1,000 kilometres on one refill of compressed natural gas (CNG).

The test was carried out under real-world conditions by French journalists Fabien Calvet and Loic Fieux, driving between the Belgian and Spanish borders. The tractor unit towed a loaded curtain-sided semi-trailer with a gross combination weight of 30 tonnes, confirming the S-Way CNG’s efficiency and viability for daily operations. The result showed an average consumption of below 21 kg / 100 km over the distance, combined with quick refuelling.

The truck's gas engine is said to have delivered smooth, responsive and quiet performance, with handling comparable to a diesel model. The journalists noted the vehicle's high-performance engine brake and intarder hydraulic retarder offered strong braking, while the full air suspension enhanced driving comfort.

The model tested uses the xCursor 13 engine by FPT Industrial, producing 500 hp and 2,200 Nm of torque. This engine is designed to meet future Euro VII emissions standards and is paired with a second-generation ZF TraXon 12-speed automated gearbox.

The vehicle was equipped with new 620-litre tanks, providing a total capacity of 1,240 litres equivalent to at least 190 kg of CNG. This capacity represents an 18 percent increase over the previous generation.

IVECO utilised multiple systems to maximise fuel efficiency:

• Predictive GPS systems worked to recover kinetic energy on downhill sections and adjust engine speed ahead of climbs.
• Intelligent energy management features, including a controlled alternator and a dis-engageable air compressor, ensure energy is only consumed when necessary.
• Aerodynamic improvements such as deflectors, side fairings and mirror-cams help to reduce drag.

The gas-powered trucks offer a transport solution that is both sustainable and cost-effective, supported by an established European refuelling network. Operators can utilise the approximately 4,300 bioLNG and 800 BioCNG stations currently in operation.

When running on biomethane, which is produced from organic waste, the trucks can reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by an average of 95 percent, alongside lower fine particle and nitrogen oxide emissions compared to diesel. The European gas refuelling network is set to expand further, with 50 new stations scheduled to open in 2026.

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Chennai-based Daimler India Commercial Vehicles has announced the appointment of Torsten Schmidt as its new CEO. He is set to succeed Satyakam Arya, who has been nominated as the designated President and CEO of Hino Motors in Japan.

Schmidt, currently CFO of Mercedes-Benz do Brasil, has been with Daimler since 1997. Over the course of nearly three decades, he has held various roles across Germany, India, Japan and Brazil, having led teams across sales and central function at Daimler Truck, Mercedes-Benz Trucks and Daimler Truck Asia.

Achim Puchert, CEO Mercedes-Benz Trucks: “Torsten is an experienced and respected leader whose global and intercultural expertise are matched by a proven ability to deliver results. His strong leadership qualities, strategic vision, financial proficiency, and comprehensive knowledge of the entire value chain make him the perfect fit for his new role and to drive our business forward. My heartfelt thanks go to Satyakam - an outstanding leader with exceptional expertise in commercial vehicle operations and a deep commitment to customer success. Satyakam has been a driving force behind Daimler India Commercial Vehicles’ success and together with his team he has established a solid footprint. We wish him all the best in his new role.”  

In his new role, Torsten Schmidt will report to Achim Puchert, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks.

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Eicher Trucks and Buses, a business unit of VE Commercial Vehicles (VECV), has launched the Eicher Pro X Diesel, expanding its offering in the 2-3.5 tonne Small Commercial Vehicle (SCV) segment.

The new diesel model follows the earlier release of the Eicher Pro X EV, providing both electric and diesel options for customers and regions requiring diesel power.

The Pro X Diesel features a new E449 diesel engine developed to deliver fuel efficiency and power for performance across terrains. The model is built as an 'Expert' solution for small firms, fleet operators and first-time buyers, focusing on performance, uptime and ownership.

The vehicle includes the segment’s largest cargo deck (10 feet 8 inches) and offers a long service interval of 30,000 km. This combination is intended to increase the goods carried per trip and reduce operating costs. The Eicher Pro X Diesel has been tested across India’s varied conditions for use in applications such as e-commerce, FMCG and regional logistics.

Vinod Aggarwal, MD & CEO, VE Commercial Vehicles, said, “With the launch of the Eicher Pro X Diesel, we are taking another significant step in transforming last mile logistics in India. The Eicher Pro X range – now available in both electric and diesel variants – reflects our commitment to serve our customers as they transform logistics in India’s Amrit Kaal. Co-created with customers, the range combines Eicher’s proven expertise in fuel efficiency, reliability and superior uptime with the operational flexibility that many businesses seek from a diesel powertrain. This launch strengthens Eicher’s presence in the rapidly evolving small commercial vehicle segment and aligns with our vision to partner India’s progress with smart, sustainable and efficient logistics solutions.”

S S Gill, Chief Commercial Officer, VE Commercial Vehicles, said, “The Eicher Pro X Diesel is a state-of-the-art product designed for customers and drivers in the large SCV segment. It introduces segment-leading comfort and safety features, including a crash-test certified metallic cabin, ergonomic D+2 seating, driver state monitoring system (DSMS) and daytime running lamps (DRL). Intelligent connectivity through the My Eicher App, predictive diagnostics, remote immobiliser and real time monitoring through the 24x7 Uptime Centre support further enhances operational control and security, delivering peace of mind for owners.”

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Swedish commercial major Volvo Trucks recently won the 2025 Green Truck Award for its Volvo FH Aero model. The win demonstrates the impact of the company's technologies and innovations on fuel efficiency, with the Aero cab and aerodynamic improvements contributing to fuel consumption and CO2 emission reductions.

The company's push for fuel savings includes a new in-house developed stop/start engine feature, which builds on the existing I-See and I-Roll technologies.

The feature works by constantly monitoring road data and road curvature. The engine is temporarily turned off when an oncoming downward slope is identified along the route. When the engine is off, zero fuel is consumed, resulting in no CO2 tailpipe emissions.

The functionality is activated at speeds above 60 kmph. Depending on conditions like topography and ambient temperature, the new I-Roll with Engine stop/start will cut up to 1 percent of fuel and CO2 emissions on top of already achieved savings.

The new feature will be offered on the Volvo FH and FH Aero with the 13-litre diesel engine. Customers can order it from November 2025.

Jan Hjelmgren, Head of Product Management, Volvo Trucks, said, “Our engineers have done it again – innovating a new engine technology that contributes to making transport by truck more fuel-efficient. As part of our decarbonisation strategy, we will continue to innovate to make our combustion engines even better and to reduce our impact on the environment.”

Volvo Trucks’ overall decarbonisation strategy includes combustion engines powered by renewable fuels, battery-electric and fuel-cell electric trucks.

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