Analysis of the Indian Patent Landscape on Alternative Fuels with a focus on Hydrogen Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engines

This paper presents an analysis of the Indian patent landscape concerning alternative fuels, with a specific focus on hydrogen fuel cells and hydrogen internal combustion engines (H2 ICEs). The study aims to provide insights into the innovation trends, key players, white spaces and technological advancements, in this evolving sector within the Indian context. The study is based on the granted patents and disclosures in the said area, and also focuses on the key problems and solutions. Based on a review of patent publications from January 2024 to March 2025, it was observed that a significant number of patent records pertain to the broader domain of hydrogen internal combustion engine disclosures. Specifically, 540 extended families patent publications were screened focusing on hydrogen internal combustion engine as a domain of disclosure. Further analysis revealed that greater 75 % of applicants were from the industry sector, indicating a strong commercial interest in these technologies. Key OEM players in the mobility space, Tier-I and Tier-II technology solution providers are prominent applicants in the said technology, particularly in areas like fuel systems, storage and material compatibilities The study engages key search strategies around the technical domains in area of hydrogen as an alternative fuel with respect to IC engines and fuel cells, which will enable the technical diaspora around the research and disclosures in this area. The technical teams would also get a learned view on the problems and solutions associated with these technologies.