Toyota Mirai Ignites India's Green Hydrogen Drive With TKM-NISE Partnership

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) sealed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) on December 11, 2025, at the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) headquarters in New Delhi. This pivotal partnership hands over the cutting-edge Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) for intensive real-world testing, supercharging India's National Green Hydrogen Mission.

The ceremony drew top dignitaries, including Shri Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy; Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, Minister of State for Power; and MNRE Secretary Shri Santosh Kumar Sarangi. This collaboration tests hydrogen mobility's potential against India's harsh climates, roads, and traffic, paving the way for carbon-neutral transport.

Testing the Future on Indian Roads

NISE launches a two-year pilot evaluating the second-generation Mirai's fuel efficiency, 650 km range, sub-five-minute refueling, drivability, and durability in dust, heat, monsoons, and varied terrains. Powered by a hydrogen-oxygen reaction producing only water vapor, the Mirai exemplifies zero-emission tech ready for buses, trucks, and fleets. Data will inform policy for nationwide hydrogen infrastructure.

Leadership Voices Strong Support

Minister Joshi praised the MoU as a leap from planning to action, arriving at Parliament in the Mirai to showcase its whisper-quiet ride and "future" namesake. He stressed hydrogen's role in energy independence. TKM's Vikram Gulati, Country Head, champions a multi-tech approach—hydrogen, BEVs, and hybrids—for net-zero by 2050.

Addressing the exchange ceremony, Shri Prahlad Joshi, Union Cabinet Minister of New & Renewable Energy and Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, said, “India’s shift to cleaner energy is now moving from planning to actual implementation. The MoU between the National Institute of Solar Energy and Toyota Kirloskar Motor, along with the handover of a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle for testing.”

​Toyota Mirai: Energy-Driven Car

The Toyota Mirai, a second-generation hydrogen fuel-cell electric car, will be able to produce electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, emitting only water vapor as a by-product. With a driving range of approximately 650 km and a refueling time of under five minutes. By this, it will be one of the most advanced zero-emission mobility solutions.

As per the brand, TMK remains dedicated to achieving carbon neutrality and clean mobility diversification. TMK remains dedicated to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 through net-zero emissions across the full product lifecycle, driven by renewable energy adoption.

Also Read: Toyota Opens an Experiential Museum in Bengaluru: A Sensory Bridge Between Mobility, Culture, and Mindfulness

TKM's Hydrogen Legacy

Chief Communication Officer Sudeep Dalvi emphasized real-world insights to mainstream hydrogen amid India's challenges. From Bidadi's 342,000-unit plants producing Innova and Fortuner, TKM builds on prior efforts like ICAT Mirai tests and Ohmium electrolyzer partnerships. This MoU accelerates green hydrogen for heavy-duty and off-grid applications.

Aligned with the 2023 Green Hydrogen Mission, the initiative boosts domestic production and decarbonization. Expect faster adoption, cleaner air, and diversified mobility, supporting India's 2070 net-zero pledge.

CarBike360 Says

As the Toyota Mirai hits Indian roads for groundbreaking tests, this TKM-NISE alliance sparks a hydrogen revolution. Imagine cleaner cities, endless ranges, and energy independence—India's green mobility future accelerates now.