Japanese technology giant Horiba Ltd. announced on Tuesday the launch of India’s first-ever hydrogen internal combustion engine test bed facility at its technical center in Chakan, Pune.
According to a statement, the facility aims to drive India’s green energy revolution by enabling the development and testing of hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engines, fueling the decarbonization initiatives of the automotive sector.
With an investment of around ₹28 crore to ₹30 crore, this facility will support the testing of engines with capacities ranging from 50 kilowatts to 380 kW, instituting Horiba’s first hydrogen testing facility across its global network.
“The establishment of this hydrogen internal combustion engine test bed facility is a significant step towards a sustainable tomorrow,” said George Gillespie, executive corporate officer of Horiba Energy and Environment, in the statement.
“Hydrogen presents a powerful solution for carbon-neutral fuel, and we are excited to support India’s ambition of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.”
The hydrogen test bed will feature advanced testing equipment, including the hydrogen gas analyzer, hydrogen fuel flow meter and laser spectroscopic motor exhaust gas analyzer.
A Decade of Commitment to India’s Green Future
Established in 2016 with an investment of ₹100 crore, Horiba’s Chakan facility has served as a hub for emission testing, engine testing, and electric vehicle development.
It has spearheaded projects such as the development of chassis dynamometers for 2/3-wheelers, real driving emissions testing, and the production of continuous emission monitoring systems.
“This pivotal step is a testament to Horiba’s goal of reducing CO₂ emissions by 42 percent by 2033 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050,” said Rajeev Gautam, president of Horiba India and Corporate Officer at HORIBA Ltd., Japan.
“It also reflects our vision to transform India into a global hub for environmentally efficient automotive technologies.”
Decarbonization Through Hydrogen
The automotive sector is one of India’s largest carbon emitters, and hydrogen-powered internal combustion engines offer a cleaner alternative to diesel and gasoline engines.
Unlike traditional electric vehicles, H2-ICE technology allows for the use of existing engine systems with minimal modifications, providing a faster and more cost-effective path to decarbonization.
Hydrogen-fueled engines emit zero CO₂ emissions, with water vapor as the primary byproduct. By using hydrogen as a fuel source, India could significantly reduce its dependence on imported crude oil, supporting the country’s energy security and aligning with its net-zero pledge by 2070.
The introduction of the H2-ICE test bed facility positions India as a leader in hydrogen technology development, an industry poised for exponential growth as global automakers race to decarbonize.
A Vision of Self-Reliance and Export Potential
The facility also strengthens India’s participation in the Make-in-India initiative, which aims to boost domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports. Horiba’s investment is expected to generate jobs, especially in tier-2 cities like Pune, Nagpur, and Haridwar, where the company operates three manufacturing facilities.
The H2-ICE test bed could also serve as a base for exporting hydrogen engine testing technology and services to other countries, further elevating India’s status as a global clean energy hub.
As India strives to achieve net-zero by 2070, the role of hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engines could prove pivotal in bridging the gap between conventional fossil fuels and electric mobility. Horiba’s new facility offers a tangible step toward realizing this vision.
