HORIBA Launches Its First Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Test Bed Facility in Pune

HORIBA India, a subsidiary of the Japanese analytical and measurement solutions firm HORIBA Ltd., has inaugurated its first Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine (H2-ICE) Test Bed Facility at its technical center in Chakan, Pune.

As per the firm's statement, this is an important step forward for hydrogen-based energy in India, showing the company's dedication to supporting the country's green energy goals under the Make-in-India and Atmanirbhar Bharat programs. The facility is built with an investment of about INR 28–30 crore and it will focus on testing hydrogen-powered engines with capacities of up to 380 kilowatts.

The Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Test Bed Facility is part of HORIBA’s broader mission to contribute to carbon neutrality and sustainability. This state-of-the-art facility showcases cutting-edge hydrogen-based technologies, including the Hydrogen Gas Analyzer (HyEVO), Hydrogen Fuel Flow Meter (HyFQ-2000 Series), and Laser Spectroscopic Motor Exhaust Gas Analyzer (MEXA-ONE-XL-NX). Designed to meet global safety and compliance standards, the facility offers a hands-on experience through live demonstrations, fostering innovation and collaboration in the renewable energy sector.

It was inaugurated by Dr. George Gillespie, Executive Corporate Officer of HORIBA Energy and Environment, and Dr. Rajeev Gautam, Corporate Officer of HORIBA Ltd. and President of HORIBA India.

As per the firm, it  has focused on sectors like automotive, process and environment, and semiconductors, which have now expanded to include energy and materials. The Chakan Technical Center, which spans 10,000 square meters, has been instrumental in projects such as emission measurement systems, ambient air quality monitoring, and electric vehicle development.

Dr. George Gillispie, Executive Corporate Officer, HORIBA Energy and Environment said, “HORIBA understands the dire need of a cleaner, greener planet. As the most abundant element on Earth, Hydrogen presents a powerful solution for carbon-neutral fuel which can embark a new era in Energy. We are excited to support India’s ambition of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. The establishment of this Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Test Bed facility is going to be a significant step towards a sustainable tomorrow and plays a crucial role in India’s green energy revolution. This initiative is a testament to HORIBA’s legacy of authenticity and excellence, captured in our mission of enhancing HONMAMON.” 

Dr. Rajeev Gautam, Corporate Officer – HORIBA Ltd., Japan and President – HORIBA India said, “HORIBA’s investment in this state-of-the-art facility underscores our commitment to a sustainable future with Make-in-India products and solutions. The first-ever Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Test Bed facility took a kick-start from India in the entire Global HORIBA group, and this pivotal step is a testament toward HORIBA’s goal of reducing CO₂ emissions by 42 percent  by 2033 hence, achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. This investment is a strong step towards revolutionising the automotive industry in India with an environmentally efficient approach.”

With this new facility, HORIBA India aims to meet the growing demands of the Indian market, setting a benchmark for sustainability and innovation in the hydrogen energy domain.