Ashok Leyland showcased India’s first 100 per cent methanol prototype truck, writes Richa Tyagi.

Commercial vehicle manufacturer Ashok Leyland has showcased India’s first 100 per cent methanol-powered truck. Unveiled to highlight innovative green energy solutions, the prototype was featured at the India Bio Energy and Tech Expo, demonstrating a viable pathway toward carbon-neutral transportation.

Developed under a multi-year collaborative initiative backed by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), alongside strategic partnerships with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and Niti Aayog, the project proves that heavy commercial vehicles can operate entirely on pure methanol (M100) without any fuel blending.

Researchers adapted a spark-ignited platform derived from standard CNG engine architecture to keep modifications minimal and cost-effective. Operational updates were restricted to swapping out fuel injectors, upgrading the fuel tank and lines, and implementing precise electronic calibration changes. Despite these minimal structural shifts, the 11-ton prototype matches the performance metrics of its diesel and CNG counterparts. It delivers 144 horsepower and 450 Nm of maximum torque, while successfully meeting stringent BS6 emission standards. Methanol (CH3OH) acts as an oxygenated fuel containing a hydroxyl radical, which significantly reduces overall pollutant output. The truck can operate on biomethanol produced locally via steam reformation, which lowers import dependence and operational running costs. 

Specifications

No. of Cylinders/ Capacity: 4/3.8 Litres

Aspiration: Turbocharged & Intercooled

Fuel: Methanol 100 per cent

Rated Power / Torque: 144 hp / 450 Nm

Combustion: Stoichiometric with EGR

Fuel system: Multi-point Port Injection with M100 specific injector, pump and filter

Ignition system: Ignition coil on Spark plug

After treatment device: 3-way Catalytic converter

Emission Compliance: BS VI

Vehicle application range: 11 to 18.5 Ton, Intermediate Commercial Truck