NAVIGATING the TRANSITION to SUSTAINABLE TRUCKING TECHNOLOGIES
India’s logistics sector has emerged as a powerhouse in recent years, and this trend is set to continue. Media reports project the Indian economy to reach USD 26 trillion by FY48. However, the transport and logistics sector, integral to this growth, faces a critical challenge: adaptation. Seamless movement of goods is vital for growth, particularly given
India’s diverse terrain. However, for the industry to be future ready, trucks powered by green fuels, intelligent fleet management services and driver-assist features will be critical. This transition demands a nuanced approach, as the varied applications and truck sizes defy a one-size-fits-all solution. Tailored strategies will be essential to effectively address these variations. As we progress in our journey towards adopting alternative fuels, the development of infrastructure and ecosystem will enable clean fuels to achieve cost parity with traditional fuels.
A multi-faceted approach to clean logistics
The future lies in embracing a diverse mix of green fuels. Closed-loop operations involving shorter distances and lighter loads will benefit from electric trucks supported by fast-charging infrastructure, while for long-haul journeys, hydrogen, CNG and LNG are more feasible. Hydrogen fuel cell, with zero emissions and an extended range, shows promise. CNG is readily available in many regions across the country, and distribution for LNG is progressing fast – natural gases provide a more immediate alternative to diesel for specific applications. A multi-pronged approach, with different fuels catering to different trucking needs, will pave the way for an overall greener logistics landscape.
Tata Motors, committed to achieving its net zero goal by 2045, consistently explores innovative clean technology solutions for commercial vehicles. We have been developing multiple powertrain technologies, including battery electric, CNG, Bi-Fuel, LNG, Fuel-cell electric, and Hydrogen ICE technologies. Additionally, the company is also extensively working towards a modular architecture for its vehicles to quickly adapt to customized applications and fuel technology requirements.
The company’s commitment to carbon neutrality is also evident in the two recently unveiled cutting-edge R&D facilities. These facilities are equipped with an engine test cell for developing hydrogen internal combustion engines and house hydrogen storage and dispensing infrastructure, both crucial for advancing fuel cell technology.
Safety: A priority on Indian roads
While the transition to alternate fuel technologies shows plenty of promise and is gaining significant attention, prioritizing safety goes hand in hand. India boasts the second-largest road network globally, spanning approximately 60 lakh kilometers with heavy traffic volumes. However, the sobering statistics of over 3.6 lakh accidents and nearly 1.3 lakh fatalities annually underscore the urgent need for a more systematic approach to road safety.
Tata Motors leverages its extensive industry experience to develop a unique approach to commercial vehicle safety. By integrating real-world Indian road accident data with a smart synthesis of active and passive safety technologies, Tata Motors ensures superior safety performance across light, medium, and heavy commercial trucks. Key components of Tata Motors’ safety strategy include the deployment of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as collision mitigation and lane departure warning systems, which actively work towards preventing collisions and enhancing the safety of drivers, cargo, and other road users. In addition to these active safety measures, Tata Motors also employs passive safety measures through advancements in materials and digital optimization to improve vehicle robustness, ensuring that the impact on the vehicle and its occupants is minimized in the event of an accident.
Investing in Well-being of Drivers
Driver comfort plays a crucial role in preventing accidents and ensuring long-term profitability. The logistics industry in India faces a major shortage of long-haul truck drivers. As per a study, there is a stark imbalance between the number of trucks (60 lakh) and drivers (36 lakh), leaving at least 20 lakh trucks inactive. One of the reasons attributed towards shortage of drivers is the meager working conditions. To provide drivers a better working environment, Tata Motors’ new range of trucks integrate advanced safety and comfort features including Hill Start Assist, anti-topple sensors, adjustable seating, superior ergonomics, and digital displays. These features create a stress-free work environment and empower drivers to manage long journeys safely and efficiently. Moreover, in partnership with state governments and the Ministry of Surface Transport, Tata Motors has set up Driver Training Institutes that offer comprehensive training for various commercial vehicles.
The company’s driver welfare efforts also extend beyond product advancements and driver training. By offering programs like ‘Tata Samarth’,
the company also focuses on drivers’ health, safety, and well-being, thereby improving the quality of life for them and their families.
Power of data-driven insights
India’s transportation industry is undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by the advent of connected vehicles that harness real-time data to provide valuable insights.
At the forefront of this transformation is Tata Motors’ connected vehicle platform, Fleet Edge, which empowers Fleet owners with real time insights on driving patterns, fuel management, fuel efficiency, vehicle health and help improve operation costs and fleet efficiency. Tata Motors’ platform supports over six lakh trucks, offering unique data-driven services like Mileage Sarathi to improve fuel efficiency. Additionally, with investments in Freight Tiger, a platform providing comprehensive logistics solutions for cargo movement, Tata Motors aims to enhance the efficiency of India’s truck and freight ecosystem.
Rajendra Petkar
