Yamaha Develops Hydrogen-Powered Outboard Prototype for Boats

Yamaha Motor Corporation, in collaboration with Roush and Regulator Marine, has developed the “world’s first” hydrogen-powered outboard prototype for recreational boats. The companies plan to begin testing for viability on the water this summer. The system is on display at the Miami International Boat Show, taking place from February 14-18, 2024, in Miami, Florida, the US. Yamaha aims to achieve carbon neutrality throughout all its operations by 2035 and for all its products by 2050. Ben Speciale, President of Yamaha US Marine Business Unit, believes that hydrogen is the most viable way to meet these goals, especially within the marine market.

Roush provided Yamaha with its experience in the hydrogen industry, spanning over two decades of hydrogen systems integration and research expertise. Roush Vice-President, Advanced Engineering, Matt Van Benschoten, explained that Roush is the fuel systems integrator for the project, responsible for fuel system designs, specifications development, physical integration, safety system analysis, as well as testing and development. The relationship with Regulator Marine gives Yamaha the ability to test the prototype in a premium boating environment and “lead the way in the development of hydrogen as a fuel source in marine environments.”

In the recreational boating sector, NatPower H and Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) revealed they will develop a hydrogen refuelling station to support the yachting industry. The project, set to be installed by the summer of 2024, will be worth around €100m and has already been adhered to by 25 Italian marinas and ports. This development comes at a time when hydrogen is becoming increasingly important in the energy sector, with a growing skills gap that needs to be addressed.

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