One of the main reasons hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCV’s) have not gained traction in India is the lack of refuelling infrastructure. As of 2025, India has only a handful of hydrogen refueling stations, most of which are part of pilot programs or research initiatives. Without a robust network of refueling points, FCV’s are impractical for everyday use or long-distance travel.
Vehicle Costs
Hydrogen production remains expensive, especially when derived through electrolysis using renewable energy. Additionally, the cost of manufacturing hydrogen fuel cell systems is still high due to limited economies of scale. FCVs like the Toyota Mirai or Hyundai Nexo, while technically available, are priced far above conventional internal combustion or even electric vehicles. This limits their accessibility to most Indian consumers.
Policy
Although the Indian government has launched the National Green Hydrogen Mission with plans to become a global hub for green hydrogen, clear policies specific to hydrogen vehicles are still evolving. Unlike electric vehicles (EV’s), which benefit from incentives such as the FAME-II scheme and state-level subsidies, FCVs currently lack targeted financial support or purchase incentives.
EV Dominance
India’s focus has largely shifted toward electric vehicles (EV’s) for its clean mobility goals. Automakers have responded accordingly, investing heavily in EV production, charging infrastructure, and consumer education. Given the rising sales of electric two and four wheelers and expanding charging networks, FCV’s are not seen as an immediate alternative, especially when EV’s are already gaining market trust and volumes.
Future
While the adoption of FCV’s is currently low, hydrogen may still play a critical role in India’s transport sector, particularly in heavy-duty commercial applications like buses and trucks. Pilot projects such as NTPC’s hydrogen bus trials in Leh or IOC’s hydrogen fuel initiatives reflect early efforts. However, widespread personal use of hydrogen cars remains unlikely in the short term.
Conclusion
Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles face multiple challenges in India, from infrastructure and costs to policy gaps and competing technologies. While potential exists in the long term, current market and policy conditions favour the growth of electric vehicles over FCV’s.
