Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit, in collaboration with Roush® and Regulator Marine, made waves at the 2024 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas by unveiling the world’s first hydrogen-powered outboard motor for recreational boats. This innovative Yamaha H2 outboard concept, powered by a hydrogen fuel system designed by Roush and showcased on a custom hull by Regulator Marine, highlights the potential of hydrogen as a sustainable fuel for internal combustion engines.
The display attracted over 160,000 attendees and 2,300 media representatives, offering a glimpse into the future of marine and automotive technology. Yamaha’s participation aligns with its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2035 for operations and 2050 for products.
Pioneering Carbon-Neutral Propulsion
“SEMA and Yamaha share the belief that there is no single solution to achieving carbon neutrality, and hydrogen is a compelling option for the future of cleaner internal combustion engines,” said Grant Suzuki, Chief Technology Officer, Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit. “Recreational boating relies on internal combustion, and sustainable fuels like hydrogen allow us to meet customer needs while reducing environmental impact.”
The Yamaha H2 outboard concept received enthusiastic feedback from attendees, reflecting the industry’s growing interest in alternative fuels. Yamaha plans to continue testing and collecting data to refine the technology.
Cross-Industry Collaboration
Yamaha’s showcase featured a FutureTech Fireside Chat, with panelists including Suzuki, Roush’s Vice President of Advanced Engineering Matt Van Benschoten, and Regulator Marine’s Manufacturing Engineer Don Seal. Moderated by Martin Peters, Yamaha U.S. Marine’s Director of External Affairs, the discussion explored the role of hydrogen and other sustainable technologies in achieving carbon neutrality.
Suzuki also participated in the “Advanced Fuels and Powertrains” panel, joining industry leaders from Toyota®, Chevron®, Alliance AutoGas®, Pearson Fuels™, and the Department of Defense Energy Defense Council. The panel examined the adoption of advanced fuels, sustainable powertrains, and their integration with electrification to reduce carbon emissions.
A Commitment to Innovation
Yamaha has been exploring hydrogen as a fuel source since 2003 as part of its broader commitment to sustainable technologies. The company’s recent acquisition of electric marine propulsion leader Torqeedo GmbH complements its ongoing development of hydrogen-powered engines and sustainable marine fuels, reinforcing Yamaha’s multi-technology approach to carbon neutrality.
Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit
Based in Kennesaw, Ga., Yamaha U.S. Marine markets and manufactures outboard motors, control systems, IoT devices, jet-drive sport boats, and personal watercraft. With horsepower ranges from 2.5 to 450, Yamaha supports a diverse range of marine applications. Its portfolio also includes manufacturing divisions specializing in rotational molding, trim tabs, and stainless-steel propellers.
For more information on Yamaha’s hydrogen and sustainability initiatives, visit Yamaha Marine.
Disclaimer: Yamaha trademarks and references to other companies or products are for identification only and do not constitute endorsements. Always observe boating laws, avoid drinking while driving, and wear USCG-approved safety gear.
