Yamaha Motor Unveils Hydrogen-Powered Outboard Motor Prototype
The prototype is scheduled for testing later this year. Credit: Yamaha/Roush
Yamaha Motor, a prominent manufacturing giant, has unveiled what they assert is a groundbreaking world-first prototype: a hydrogen-powered outboard motor designed to propel motorboats.
Commitment to Carbon Neutrality
Displayed at the 2024 Miami Boat Show, this hydrogen-powered engine is the outcome of a collaboration between Yamaha and engineering firm Roush. It aligns with Yamaha’s overarching objectives to achieve carbon neutrality.
Ben Speciale, president of Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit, highlighted Yamaha’s commitment to carbon neutrality: “Yamaha is exploring all possibilities to achieve carbon neutrality… We believe hydrogen is a viable method of achieving these goals.”
Powering Environmental Cleanliness
The denser water medium necessitates significantly more energy for propulsion than air. The hydrogen combustion engine offers power and environmental cleanliness, surpassing conventional fuel engines.
However, a key challenge lies in storing sufficient H2 for engine operation due to their bulkiness. In partnership with Yamaha, Roush has meticulously restructured the prototype, optimizing space while ensuring safety and seaworthiness.
Testing for Marine Viability
While the prototype presents a promising innovation, its suitability for marine environments remains to be tested, with trials scheduled for the upcoming summer.
Joan Maxwell emphasized the importance of seeking new power sources for boats: “If we don’t look for a new source [of power for boats], we won’t find a new source… In the future… it could be very possible that we are designing hulls around these hydrogen fuel tanks.”
Read the original article on IFL Science.
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