The hydrogen car market is growing steadily worldwide, and all countries are poised to join the race.
Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs) are no longer a dream and are becoming a reality all over the world. They are achieving popularity worldwide, offering clean, fast-refuelling alternatives to battery electric vehicles. Global automakers are launching their hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in 2025, with the primary focus on combining advanced technology with everyday usability. These vehicles promise long ranges, quick refuelling, and zero emissions. Along with innovation and eco-friendly performance, it is important to understand the market and secure the right car insurance, as smart cars deserve smarter car insurance.
1. Toyota Mirai
The Toyota Mirai represents one of the world’s first hydrogen cars. It was originally launched globally in 2014 and was later introduced in India in 2022 through a government-supported pilot project by Nitin Gadkari (40th Minister of Road Transport & Highways for the Government of India). This car has gone through continuous upgradation over several years and is now proven in practical driving conditions. Blending seamlessly with advanced technology and daily convenience, it is also well-known for its long range and zero-emission water vapour exhaust, which sets a benchmark in hydrogen cars.
Key Specifications of the Toyota Mirai
- Engine (Power): 182 hp fuel-cell electric motor
- Top Speed: ~175 km/h
- Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in ~9 seconds
- Range: Up to 647 km
- Fuel Type: Hydrogen fuel cell
- Weight: ~1,850 kg
- Safety: Toyota Safety Sense, adaptive cruise, lane keep assist.
2. BMW iX5 Hydrogen
The BMW iX5 Hydrogen merges luxury and power in a hydrogen SUV format and offers rapid refuelling and sporty performance. It was first shown in 2019 and was deployed in global pilot fleets in 2023. The BMW iX5 Hydrogen has been co-developed with Toyota to test hydrogen SUV viability in everyday use. Acting as a technology showcase, it sets the stage for BMW’s first production hydrogen vehicle, expected by 2028. It brings BMW’s driving dynamics with the innovation of a hydrogen-powered car.
Key Specifications of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen
- Engine (Power): 295 kW (~401 hp) combined output
- Top Speed: ~180 km/h
- Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in < 6 seconds
- Range: ~504 km
- Fuel Type: Hydrogen fuel cell + electric motor
- Weight: ~2,500 kg
- Safety: Advanced BMW driver-assist systems, crash protection
3. Hopium Māchina
The Hopium Māchina is a French luxury hydrogen sedan, first announced as a prototype in 2020, that combines supercar-level performance with futuristic interiors and exceptional range. It was a concept designed by former Porsche, Tesla, and Alpine designer Felix Godard. The company has shown concept models at auto shows in Paris and Las Vegas, but funding problems delayed full production. It’s positioned as a premium green car icon.
Key Specifications of the Hopium Māchina
- Engine (Power): >500 hp hydrogen fuel-cell system
- Top Speed: ~230 km/h
- Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in < 5 seconds
- Range: Over 1,000 km
- Fuel Type: Hydrogen fuel cell
- Weight: ~2,000 kg (est.)
- Safety: Advanced driver assist, high-strength body structure
4. Hyundai Nexo
Nexo is basically Hyundai’s second-generation hydrogen-powered SUV, which was launched in 2018, built for sustainable long drives and offers an advanced driver-assist system with a spacious cabin. However, there is no confirmed market launch date globally yet. Hyundai has partnered with IndianOil to conduct a two-year real-world trial of the Nexo across Indian roads. It delivers a seamless performance with quick and efficient refuelling.
Key Specifications of the Hyundai Nexo
- Engine (Power): 161 hp, 395 Nm torque
- Top Speed: ~179 km/h
- Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in ~9.2 seconds
- Range: ~666 km
- Fuel Type: Hydrogen fuel cell
- Weight: ~1,814 kg
- Safety: Level 2 ADAS, blind spot monitor, lane following assist.
5. MG Euniq 7
The MG Euniq 7 is the world’s first hydrogen fuel-cell MPV, which came out globally in 2020 and was revealed at Auto Expo 2023 in India. It is developed to fulfil both family as well as commercial fleets. MG has no confirmed launch plans anytime yet. It introduces hydrogen tech to the practical MPV segment with wide interiors and strong safety standards.
Key Specifications of the MG Euniq 7
- Engine (Power): PROME P390 fuel cell, ~92 kW output
- Top Speed: ~160 km/h
- Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in ~12 seconds (approx)
- Range: ~605 km
- Fuel Type: Hydrogen fuel cell
- Weight: ~2,200 kg
- Safety: Multi-layer hydrogen leak protection, airbags, stability control
6. Honda Clarity Fuel Cell
Honda Clarity Fuel Cell is an elegant sedan that provides a silent ride, advanced tech, and a spacious interior and runs solely on hydrogen. It was introduced as a concept in 2014 and hit the spotlight at the 2015 LA and Tokyo auto shows. Later, the Honda Clarity Fuel Cell was offered on a limited lease basis in 2016 and was retired in 2021 as Honda shifted its focus to electric vehicles. It is identified as one of the early pioneers in practical hydrogen fuel-cell sedans. Though it is discontinued, it's an important hydrogen fuel cell car globally.
Key Specifications of the Honda Clarity
- Engine (Power): 174 hp electric motor
- Top Speed: ~165 km/h
- Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in ~8.1 seconds
- Range: ~589 km
- Fuel Type: Hydrogen fuel cell
- Weight: ~1,848 kg
- Safety: Honda Sensing suite, adaptive cruise, collision mitigation
Challenges for Hydrogen Car Adoption in India
Hydrogen cars hold great potential for clean cars in India, but their adoption faces significant obstacles. Along with a bunch of better qualities, it comes with some challenges, such as limited refuelling infrastructure to high costs and government policy challenges. These challenges must be overcome for hydrogen cars to achieve large-scale growth. Some of the challenges which can be resolved are:
Infrastructure Gaps
High Costs
Public Awareness
Safety Concerns
India currently lacks a widespread hydrogen refuelling network, making it difficult for fuel-cell vehicles to operate beyond pilot projects. Building supply chains and distribution hubs is essential for scaling adoption.
Hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles are significantly more expensive than petrol, diesel, or electric cars. The high cost of hydrogen production and storage also adds to overall affordability challenges.
Most consumers in India are unfamiliar with hydrogen-powered cars, leading to hesitation in adoption. Education and awareness campaigns are needed to build trust and confidence.
Hydrogen is often perceived as highly flammable and risky, which creates public concern. Advanced storage and handling technologies exist, but awareness of these safety measures remains limited.
Government Initiatives & Future Outlook for Hydrogen Cars
The Indian government is actively promoting hydrogen cars as a clean energy alternative through policies like the National Green Hydrogen Mission under the Ministry of New and Renewable Source of Energy, pilot projects, and incentives for green hydrogen production. The government’s PLI scheme encourages making green hydrogen and electrolysers in India, which can help in bringing down the costs and make hydrogen cars more accessible. With continued investment and global collaboration, hydrogen cars are expected to gradually become a viable part of India’s sustainable car future.
Conclusion
Hydrogen cars are all set to redefine the world’s clean journey and offer long ranges, rapid refuelling, and emission-free driving. No doubt challenges such as infrastructure gaps, high costs, and limited awareness exist, but ongoing government initiatives and global collaboration by the Indian government are creating a path for greater uptake in India. With the speculated arrival of the first fuel-cell vehicles in 2025, the hydrogen car holds the promise of transforming India’s automotive landscape and promoting a cleaner and environmentally sustainable future.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What hydrogen cars are launching in India in 2025?
Toyota Mirai, Hyundai Nexo, and MG Euniq 7 are among the expected launches.
What is the expected price of the Toyota Mirai?
The Toyota Mirai is expected to cost around ₹60 to 70 lakh in India.
How quickly can hydrogen cars be refuelled?
Hydrogen cars can be refuelled in just 3 to 5 minutes.
Are hydrogen cars safe for Indian roads?
Yes, hydrogen cars are built with advanced safety systems and strict global standards.
How does the cost of running a hydrogen car compare to an EV?
As hydrogen fuel is expensive and has limited infrastructure, hydrogen cars currently have higher running costs than most EVs.
Where will hydrogen refuelling stations first be set up in India?
Refuelling stations are expected to launch initially in major metropolitan cities and industrial hubs.
Who should consider buying a hydrogen car?
Environmentally conscious people with convenient access to hydrogen refuelling stations should consider buying a hydrogen car.
Will hydrogen cars replace EVs ?
Hydrogen cars are expected to complement, not replace, EVs in India’s clean ecosystem.
Which is cheaper to run: an EV or a hydrogen car?
EVs are generally cheaper to run than hydrogen cars due to lower energy and infrastructure costs.
