In its journey to net zero goal by 2070, India is encouraging use of super-chilled gas in heavy duty long-haul trucking fleet instead of diesel to cut pollution.

GreenLine Mobility currently operates a fleet of over 500 LNG-powered trucks and is adding another 1,000 such trucks by March 2025, its CEO Anand Mimani said.

What has changed now is the entry of the private sector and an acceptance among India’s large corporations that their emissions need to be in order before government regulations come calling. The result is that from Gautam Adani to Prashant Ruia, and from heads of India’s top state-run oil and gas companies to top city gas utilities, everyone is betting on turning India’s goods transport by road green. Not by electrifying the trucks but by replacing diesel with the cleaner and more affordable LNG.

The business case is humongous if you look at the success of gas-fired heavy vehicles in China, where rough estimates value the LNG needed for these vehicles at $9 billion annually. A million trucks are expected to be on China’s roads next year — worth $70 billion at Indian ticket prices.

But India’s LNG trucks’ path is strewn with rocks, namely, poor infrastructure, high vehicle prices, lack of government support, and a highly fragmented market dominated by small transporters.

Private sector drive
The impetus for LNG-fired trucking in India has come from the Essar group, which has reshaped itself as a group focused on energy transition and future fuels. LNG came into the mix after Essar realised the fuel could help decarbonise transport, says Anand Mimani, CEO of Mumbai-based clean logistics provider GreenLine Enterprises, an Essar company.

Says Anirudh Bhuwalka, CEO of Blue Energy, which has a capacity to make 10,000 heavy duty LNG trucks and counts GreenLine as an anchor customer. “Clearly, there was an opportunity to participate in this whole energy transition story in the sector. And nobody really was focusing on it, and nobody was doing anything about it.’’

GreenLine says it operates most of the 1,500 LNG trucks in India today, still a fraction of the 300,000 medium and heavy diesel trucks sold annually.

That could change. Tata Motors, Volvo, and Ashok Leyland are entering the LNG truck business. So is Adani, which commissioned its first LNG station in Tirupur, the textile hub in Tamil Nadu, with plans to build 50 LNG retail outlets over the next three to five years, Suresh Manglani, CEO, Adani Total Gas, has said in an earnings call.

State-run Indraprastha Gas will set up 100 LNG stations by 2029-30, managing director Kamal Kishore Chatiwal told Business Standard earlier.

However, unlike the others, which are either into fuel retailing or truck building, Essar is trying to build an entire ecosystem around LNG trucking, says Raunak Modi, logistics analyst with rating agency CareEdge.

GreenLine buys the trucks from Blue Energy, an Essar associate company, and provides clean logistics support to companies like Vedanta, Tata Steel, Jindal Steel, Ultratech, Hindalco, Reliance, Shell, Nestle, and Castrol.

Rocks on the path
LNG-powered trucks deliver considerable reductions in toxic emissions compared to diesel, with cuts of up to 30 per cent in CO2, up to 100 per cent in SOx, up to 59 per cent in NOx, up to 91 per cent in particulate matter, and up to 70 per cent in carbon monoxide.

“Capacity is not the issue. Products are now ready. I think the bottleneck so far has been the network creation for LNG stations,’’ Bhuwalka said.

There are hardly 20 outlets scattered across the country, compared to the 90,000-odd diesel outlets. This, says Modi, prevents bulk users such as ecommerce companies Amazon or Delhivery from using LNG vehicles. China has 8,000 LNG retail fuel stations.

LNG retail outlets are several fold more expensive to set up compared to a pump selling petrol or diesel. Industry sources say India requires either strict emission rules on diesel trucks or generous government subsidies on LNG ones. The latter is awaited even as the government supports electric two-wheelers.

Beijing incentivised adoption of LNG trucks. It began conversions in 2015, with its LNG truck fleet almost tripling since 2019 and on track to reach 1 million next year, says Greg Molnar, LNG analyst at Paris-based International Energy Agency.

As in India, LNG truck sales compete with diesel vehicles in China on price. While operating costs of LNG fired vehicles are lower than diesel powered ones in both nations, the difference lies in capital costs. Advantages of a lower operating cost are nullified by the high capital costs of the trucks, and the high cost of setting up an LNG retail outlet.

A LNG-fired truck is more expensive than a diesel-fired equivalent by Rs 20-25 lakh, a
steep climb for most of India’s truckers. This gap is half in China.

“I think capital cost definitely is a major concern. You know, the transport industry is very reluctant to try on new technologies in a hurry,’’ says Bhuwalka, “and especially when those new technologies come at a high price point.’’

India’s dream of increasing the share of gas in its energy mix to 15 per cent by 2030 from 6 per cent now will be a steep climb unless the government creates an entirely new demand sector in retail LNG, analysts say.

But LNG has to be priced competitively or demand from trucks may evaporate, especially in a price sensitive market such as India.

“Whilst all cylinders are firing to celebrate the growth of China’s LNG fuelled trucks, how many remember that China used to have a huge fleet of LNG fuelled buses which have disappeared, gone electric by now?’’ Yiyong He, CEO of LNG Easy, a fuel retailer, said in a post on LinkedIn.

Modi of CareEdge says: “Overall, you know, larger scale adoption, I think it is sort of a matter of time right now. We do not really see it happening anytime very, very soon.”

How is India’s green mobility sector transforming, and what factors are influencing its trajectory?
India’s green mobility sector is undergoing a significant transformation, fuelled by strong government policies, technological progress, and increased consumer awareness. The EV market is poised to experience substantial growth, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 40% by 2030. This growth is underpinned by substantial investments in local manufacturing and charging infrastructure. Key government initiatives, such as the FAME scheme, play a pivotal role in driving this transition. Furthermore, the Union Budget 2024-25 emphasised a focus on renewable energy and green initiatives, reinforcing India’s commitment to sustainable transportation.

What initiatives are you implementing to enhance your market presence and accelerate growth?
To enhance our market presence and accelerate growth, we are focusing on several key domestic initiatives. We are investing in research and development to continuously improve our products and introduce innovative features that differentiate us from competitors. Targeted marketing strategies are being implemented to reach our ideal customers and build strong brand awareness within the domestic market. We are also exploring strategic partnerships and alliances with domestic companies to expand our market reach and leverage complementary strengths. A critical component of our strategy is the reduction of Scope 3 emissions, which encompass indirect emissions along our value chain. By prioritising sustainable practices and collaborating with suppliers and partners, we aim to minimise our overall carbon footprint. This commitment not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also resonates with environmentally conscious consumers, enhancing our brand reputation. Through these initiatives, we aim to strengthen our market position and drive sustainable growth within India.

How effective have your green mobility launches been in reducing CO₂ emissions over the past two years?
GreenLine has been at the forefront of reducing CO₂ emissions with the innovative launch of our LNG trucks, equipped with Level 1 ADAS cameras and telematics data sensors. Over the past two years, our commitment to sustainability has resulted in a remarkable 30% reduction in CO₂ emissions compared to traditional diesel trucks. This achievement translates to a significant environmental impact, with GreenLine successfully cutting 6,049 tonnes of carbon emissions. Such reductions not only contribute to improved air quality but also align seamlessly with India’s broader sustainability goals.

What are the primary challenges for green mobility in India, and how are current innovations addressing these issues?
India faces several significant challenges in its pursuit of green mobility, including inadequate infrastructure, high upfront costs for electric vehicles (EVs), and a heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. These hurdles can impede the transition to a more sustainable transportation ecosystem. To address these challenges, the Indian government has introduced initiatives like the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme, which aims to boost EV adoption and facilitate infrastructure development. A critical component of this initiative is the expansion of charging stations, with an ambitious target of 1.32 million stations by 2030. This expansion is vital for easing range anxiety among consumers and promoting widespread EV use.  In addition to government efforts, private companies are stepping up to contribute to green mobility. For instance, our investment in LNG-powered trucks represents a significant step forward. These trucks reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 30%, providing a cleaner alternative to traditional diesel vehicles while also improving operational efficiency in logistics. Together, these efforts are paving the way for a more sustainable transportation future in India, aligning with global sustainability goals and responding to the increasing demand for environmentally friendly solutions among consumers.

What interventions can the government implement to accelerate the growth of the green mobility sector in India?
To accelerate the growth of the green mobility sector in India, the government can implement several strategic interventions. First, expanding charging infrastructure and providing incentives for electric vehicle adoption are essential steps to encourage greater consumer uptake. Second, supporting research and development, fostering partnerships, and developing clear policies will create a favourable environment for innovation and growth in the sector. Integrating EV infrastructure with renewable energy can significantly reduce oil dependency, allowing the government to waive toll fees, offer green financing, and provide low-cost loans. Finally, promoting LNG-powered vehicles through incentives, infrastructure development, and regulatory support can further drive emissions reductions and enhance sustainable transportation options. By combining these efforts, the Indian government can create a conducive environment for the growth of green mobility, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

How do your financial and technological partnerships contribute to strengthening green mobility in India?
At GreenLine, we believe that collaboration is essential to advancing green mobility, which is why we have formed partnerships with leading financial institutions to secure funding for expanding our fleet of LNG-powered trucks. This initiative not only facilitates the transition for businesses to cleaner alternatives but also significantly reduces their carbon footprints. We are actively collaborating with technology companies to develop innovative solutions that enhance fuel efficiency and explore alternative clean fuels. Furthermore, our subsidiary, Ultra Gas and Energy, is establishing a robust network of LNG refuelling stations across India, effectively removing a major barrier for businesses considering the switch to LNG trucks. Through these strategic partnerships, GreenLine is playing a pivotal role in shaping a cleaner and more sustainable future for India’s transportation sector.

What are the major growth targets, expansion plans, and strategies your organization aims to achieve over the next three years?
GreenLine’s growth plans for the next three years in India are ambitious and forward-looking. Currently operating a robust fleet of over 500 LNG trucks, we aim to expand this fleet to 5,000 trucks in the next 2 years. While our primary focus remains on heavy trucking, we are also excited to announce the upcoming launch of our electric vehicle (EV) trucks for short-haul operations, further diversifying our offerings. A key aspect of our growth strategy revolves around innovation and sustainability. We are committed to leveraging cutting-edge technologies to optimise our routes, enhance fuel efficiency, and reduce our carbon footprint. This relentless focus on innovation will drive our expansion efforts as we strive to meet the increasing demand for eco-friendly transportation solutions. With our comprehensive expansion plans, we anticipate a substantial transformation in India’s LNG network. The introduction of new refuelling stations and improved LNG availability will further support our growth trajectory, positioning us as a leading player in India’s sustainable transportation sector.

Our eco-friendly, LNG-powered trucking fleet will now play a central role in L’Oréal India’s supply chain. By integrating our sustainable long-haul trucks, L’Oréal India can make significant strides toward cutting Scope 3 emissions associated with transportation. This partnership is not only an opportunity to drive positive environmental change but also a model for efficiency and safety, where our cleaner-energy logistics meet L’Oréal’s high standards of excellence.

The formal event marking this partnership included several leaders from L’Oréal India’s operations and supply chain teams, such as Basant Mohta, Regional Fulfillment Director; Shivank Saran, General Manager – Supply Chain; and Anil Jindal, Senior Manager of International & Domestic Transport. Their involvement underscores L’Oréal India’s active commitment to creating an eco-conscious operational framework.

At GreenLine, we are happy to support L’Oréal India on this journey. Together, we are setting a new standard in sustainable logistics, providing a foundation for a cleaner, more efficient future in beauty. This collaboration reinforces GreenLine’s role as a trusted partner in the sustainability journey of global leaders, working to build a greener tomorrow for all.

JSW Steel, a company well-recognized for its proactive environmental initiatives, has strengthened its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint by integrating GreenLine’s LNG-powered trucks into its logistics operations. Our eco-friendly fleet provides a cleaner alternative to traditional diesel, significantly reducing carbon emissions and enhancing the sustainability of JSW Steel’s supply chain.

The flag-off event was attended by prominent members of JSW Steel’s operations and logistics teams, including Mr. Lokendra Raj Singh (COO), Mr. Sushil Nowal, S.A. Sreenivas, Niti Kumar Jain (Head of Mechanical Maintenance), Govinda Raju (Sr. Vice President, Planning and Logistics), Bhoopal Reddy (Vice President, Operations – Cold Rolling Mill), Manmohan Shetty (GM, Logistics), Mukesh Maloo (GM, Logistics), Stephen Thomas (Chief Business Officer), Mayank V. Agarwal (Revenue Head West and Head of Brand & Communication), and Jessmon Eappen (Assistant Manager). Their invaluable support and commitment have been key in bringing this eco-friendly initiative to life.

Through this partnership, our LNG-powered fleet will support JSW Steel’s logistics requirements by providing an efficient, environmentally-conscious transportation solution. LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) offers a substantial reduction in emissions while maintaining high standards of safety and operational efficiency. Every truck in our fleet is designed to reduce emissions per trip, fully aligning with JSW Steel’s sustainability goals and commitment to a greener supply chain.

Our collaboration with JSW Steel goes beyond the adoption of cleaner fuel. Together, we are setting a new industry benchmark that prioritizes environmental impact alongside operational efficiency. This initiative showcases the potential for meaningful change when industry leaders unite under a shared vision for sustainability.

At GreenLine, we believe that our partnership with JSW Steel serves as a model for the logistics industry, demonstrating that the path to a cleaner tomorrow can be paved through innovative, sustainable logistics practices. By aligning environmental stewardship with operational efficiency, we are creating real impact in the industry.

As we continue this eco-friendly journey together, GreenLine remains dedicated to supporting JSW Steel’s vision for a sustainable future. We look forward to building a lasting positive impact in the logistics sector, driving forward sustainable transportation solutions that contribute to a healthier planet.

The event brought together key figures from Tata Steel, including Mr. Ujjwal Desai (CRCW Chief), Mr. Hemendra Sambhav (Head of Operation & Maintenance), Mr. B.A. Raut (Head of Supply Chain), and Mr. V.V. Raut (Senior Manager QA), among others. Their engagement has been instrumental in advancing this initiative. We also acknowledge the presence of GreenLine’s own leadership team, including Mr. Kaizad Pesi Palia (COO), Mr. Mayank V Agarwal, and Mr. Bhachubay Patel, whose collective efforts have shaped this development.

At GreenLine, our dedication lies in transforming logistics by prioritizing operational efficiency and sustainability. By integrating our LNG-powered trucks into the logistics framework at Tata Steel Tarapur, we aim to enhance the transportation process, ensuring it aligns with modern environmental standards. This initiative reflects Tata Steel’s commitment to sustainable practices and positions both organizations as leaders in adopting cleaner, more efficient logistics solutions.

Our LNG-powered fleet offers a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels, reducing the carbon footprint of logistics operations while maintaining high safety standards. This step not only addresses immediate transportation needs but also reinforces the shared vision of a greener future in logistics.

The flag-off symbolizes more than just the start of a new operational phase; it represents a commitment to ongoing improvements in transportation practices. By integrating advanced logistics solutions, we are setting a precedent for the industry, focusing on efficiency and sustainability as core values.

As GreenLine and Tata Steel Tarapur move forward, we are committed to continuous progress in our logistics strategies. This initiative lays the groundwork for future advancements and demonstrates the potential for responsible logistics practices to drive industry standards. Together, we are shaping a more sustainable logistics landscape that reflects our values and our vision for a cleaner, greener future.

Sterlite Copper’s commitment to sustainability aligns perfectly with GreenLine’s mission to bring clean, efficient logistics solutions to the forefront of industry operations. By incorporating our LNG-powered trucks, Sterlite Copper takes a meaningful step toward lowering its carbon footprint, demonstrating leadership in adopting eco-friendly logistics practices.

The flag-off ceremony was attended by notable leaders from both organizations, including Mr. Anil Tembe (COO – Sterlite Copper Silvassa), Mr. Sathiya Narayana Moorthy (SBU Director – Sterlite Copper Silvassa), Mrs. Neha Kini (CCO – Copper Sector), Mr. Kaizad Pesi Palia (COO – GreenLine), Mr. Neeraj Singh, Mr. Harsh Jhanwar, Dr. Dimpll Khanna (Brand & Marketing Manager – GreenLine), and other dignitaries. Their presence and commitment have been instrumental in realizing this shared vision, setting a strong foundation for this sustainable initiative.

Through this partnership, GreenLine’s LNG-powered fleet will support Sterlite Copper in meeting its logistics needs with a cleaner, more efficient alternative to conventional fuel. LNG, or Liquefied Natural Gas, is a more sustainable fuel option, offering substantial reductions in carbon emissions without compromising on performance, safety, or reliability. Each LNG truck is engineered to minimize emissions per trip, seamlessly integrating with Sterlite Copper’s sustainability goals. The LNG Powered trucks will help is reducing upto 30 % CO2, upto 100 % Sox, upto 59 % NOx and upto 91 % Particulate Matter.

This partnership signifies more than just a shift to LNG-powered trucks; it represents a new industry benchmark in environmentally conscious logistics. By collaborating with Sterlite Copper, GreenLine aims to create a positive impact not only on transportation standards but also on the overall approach to sustainability in logistics. Together, we are setting an example that demonstrates how environmental stewardship can work hand-in-hand with operational efficiency.

As Sterlite Copper and GreenLine drive forward with this eco-friendly approach, we are committed to making a lasting positive impact on the logistics industry. This partnership is a testament to what can be achieved when two organizations come together with a shared purpose: a cleaner, more sustainable future.

GreenLine is honored to play a part in Sterlite Copper’s journey towards sustainability, and we look forward to continued progress in reducing emissions across the logistics sector. Together, we are paving the way for a greener future in logistics—one where every mile traveled reflects a commitment to the environment and to innovative, responsible transportation solutions.

The Logistics Shakti Summit is a pivotal event that highlights organizations demonstrating leadership in sustainable logistics practices. Being named a Rising Star reinforces our dedication to developing greener solutions and sets a precedent for the industry. Our focus on reducing emissions and enhancing operational efficiency is at the core of our mission, and this award validates the strides we are making in that direction.

We are proud to operate a fleet powered by LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas), which offers a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels, significantly cutting carbon emissions. This award inspires us to further innovate and implement solutions that align with our vision for a sustainable logistics future.

The Green Logistics Shakti Award also symbolizes the collective efforts of our team and partners who share our commitment to environmental responsibility. We extend our gratitude to everyone who has supported our initiatives—from our dedicated employees to our clients and industry partners. Your support is instrumental in propelling our mission forward.

As we look ahead, this recognition motivates us to deepen our focus on sustainable logistics and explore new opportunities for reducing our environmental footprint. We remain committed to setting new benchmarks in the industry, ensuring that our operations not only meet the demands of today but also contribute to a healthier planet for future generations.

In conclusion, receiving the Green Logistics Shakti – Rising Star Award marks an important moment for GreenLine Mobility Solutions. We will continue our journey towards sustainability, making a meaningful impact in the logistics industry. Together, we can achieve a greener future, one innovative solution at a time.

The official flag-off ceremony at the Dahej plant was a momentous occasion, attended by esteemed guests including Mr. Krishnaraju Kumaravel, President & COO and Plant Head at Hindalco Birla Copper, Mr. Sukanta Das, President of Corporate Logistics, and Mr. Bishnu Agarwal, Joint President overseeing Finance & Commercial aspects. Senior executives from both Hindalco Birla Copper and GreenLine were also present, emphasizing the significance of this collaborative effort.

Mr. Anand Mimani, CEO of GreenLine, highlighted the pivotal role of LNG-powered trucks in advancing sustainable logistics practices. He emphasized that this collaboration sets a benchmark for environmental stewardship within the industry, demonstrating the potential of LNG technology to reduce carbon emissions and drive positive change.

LNG offers distinct environmental advantages compared to traditional diesel fuel, including lower levels of nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and greenhouse gases. This shift aligns with Hindalco Birla Copper’s broader sustainability objectives, encompassing energy efficiency, resource conservation, and responsible environmental practices across its operations.

Looking forward, the partnership between Hindalco Birla Copper and GreenLine establishes a precedent for the industry, showcasing how strategic alliances can foster environmental progress. By embracing LNG technology, these companies not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute significantly to global initiatives aimed at addressing climate change and promoting sustainability.

Hindalco Birla Copper’s collaboration with GreenLine to integrate LNG-powered trucks represents a bold stride towards leadership in sustainable practices within the industrial sector. With a shared commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly logistics solutions, this initiative underscores their dedication to shaping a cleaner, greener future. As momentum builds, these efforts are poised to inspire similar initiatives across industries, paving the way towards a more sustainable world.