Yamaha’s work with hydrogen technology highlights its commitment to sustainability and innovation,” said Grant Suzuki, Chief of Technology at Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit. “By partnering with industry leaders and advancing hydrogen propulsion systems, we’re not only unlocking carbon-neutral marine product possibilities but also maintaining the performance and reliability Yamaha is known for.”
Suzuki’s remarks emphasized “Hydrogen for Recreational Craft,” a topic Yamaha presented at the 2024 International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition (IBEX®). The presentation included insights into Yamaha’s collaboration with partners like Roush and Regulator Marine, the history of Yamaha’s hydrogen development, and the technical aspects of engineering hydrogen internal combustion engines.
Joining Suzuki, Louis Doucette, Manager of Advanced Vehicles, and Tomoyoshi Onikata, from Yamaha Motor Company’s Automotive Development Section, discussed challenges and opportunities around hydrogen fuel storage, distribution, and regulatory considerations.
Yamaha also shared updates on its testing and development efforts. In early 2024, the company introduced a hydrogen-powered golf car and a hydrogen-powered outboard, both industry firsts, to explore hydrogen as a solution for achieving carbon neutrality within its product lines.
Yamaha’s interest in hydrogen dates back to 2003, with early research into alternative energy solutions. Over the years, Yamaha has collaborated with partners to develop hydrogen-powered engines, part of its broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability. These efforts align with Yamaha’s exploration of hydrogen as a clean, renewable energy source while maintaining its signature performance standards.
Pursuing hydrogen technology is just one of Yamaha’s strategies for carbon reduction. Earlier this year, Yamaha acquired electric marine propulsion leader Torqeedo, expanding its electric and hybrid power capabilities. Yamaha is also researching sustainable marine fuels as part of its commitment to industry-wide carbon neutrality.
Based in Kennesaw, Georgia, Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit markets and sells marine outboard motors ranging from 2.5 to 450 horsepower and designs boat control systems, IoT devices, and jet-drive sport boats. It includes manufacturing divisions such as Kracor, Bennett Marine, and Yamaha Marine Precision Propellers. The U.S. unit is a division of Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A., headquartered in Cypress, California.
