Yamaha, like every other engine manufacturers in the world, is committed to the energy transition. While the Japanese engine manufacturer has just finalized the acquisition of German electric motor manufacturer Torqeedo., it is continuing its efforts in another direction: hydrogen.
Pleasure boating accounts for less than 0.1% of the transport sector's greenhouse gas emissions
While electric motorization is one way of reducing pollutant emissions, this technology is not a miracle solution either. Hydrogen, for its part, still has many challenges to overcome, but the technology remains promising.
Yamaha seems convinced of this, having unveiled the world's first prototype hydrogen-powered outboard motor at the recent Miami Boat Show.
Today, recreational boating accounts for less than 0.1% of the transport sector's greenhouse gas emissions, 0.7% of transport CO2 emissions in the USA and 0.4% of transport CO2 emissions in Europe. In 20 years, pollutant emissions from pleasure boats in the USA have been reduced by over 90%.
These are encouraging figures, but they don't mean we can't look to the future and further reduce pollutant emissions.
Carbon neutrality by 2035
Moreover, according to a recent ICOMIA study, it seems increasingly clear that carbon neutrality will be achieved with several technologies, not just one. Yamaha has committed itself to achieving carbon neutrality by 2035 for its operations, and that its products will reach it by 2050. With this in mind, the Japanese company is embarking on electric power while exploring the possibilities of hydrogen. Nor does the motor manufacturer intend to abandon combustion engines, but is instead focusing on the development of sustainable fuels.
To produce this prototype, Yamaha has teamed up with Roush, a highly reputed engineering company in the fields of aerospace, defense and amusement parks, as well as hydrogen. Matt Van Benschoten, Roush's Vice President Advance Engineering, said: "Roush's history in hydrogen extends from speed records to spacecraft. Much of the knowledge we have gained over the years is now being applied directly to this Yamaha project."
First tests in summer 2024
To present a complete project, Yamaha also teamed up with Regulator Marine, a sport fishing boat builder based in Edenton, North Carolina. Regulator built a hull based on the 26XO and modified it to accommodate the three hydrogen tanks needed to power the outboard motor. In the end, most of the space below deck is used for the tanks. No weight figures have yet been released.
Unfortunately, Yamaha would not reveal any further details and specifications, starting with engine power. Perhaps we'll find out more when the first tests will take place in the summer of 2024.
