Video Transcript
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA,revealedan outboard motor powered by hydrogen at this year’s Miami International Boat Show. Yamaha designed the outboard for recreational boats, including the prototype vessel equipped with a fuel delivery system that the company brought to the boat show.
The motor is the result of Yamaha’s collaboration with motor vehicle manufacturer Roush and boat manufacturer Regulator Marine, Inc. Yamaha stated in a press release that the companies plan to refine the prototype for water testing, scheduled for this summer.
Roush contributed fuel system engineering experience, and Regulator Marine constructed a hull derived from its Regulator 26XO fishing boat that will house the vessel’s hydrogen tanks. New Atlas reported that challenges in the building process included relocating bulkheads and other elements around the sizable hydrogen tanks, which are low and centrally placed.
The companies aimed to show how hydrogen could serve as an alternative fuel source in the marine industry and provide an opportunity for engineers to consider marine standards regarding hydrogen-powered vessels. The development also aligns with Yamaha’s goal of achieving carbon-neutral operations by 2035 and carbon-neutral products by 2050.
Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit President Ben Speciale stated that the company is pursuing decarbonization through multiple solutions, including plans to acquire sustainable outboards and inboards company Torqeedo and collaborating with the International Council of Marine Industry Association’s (ICOMIA) “Propelling Our Future” educational campaign.
Speciale encouraged other companies in the marine industry to get involved in pursuing carbon neutrality.
