Yamaha, collaborators unveil hydrogen-powered outboard at SEMA 2024

The Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit revealed the world’s first hydrogen-powered outboard motor for recreational boats. Complemented by a Roush-designed hydrogen fuel system that powers the outboard and a custom boat hull from Regulator Marine, the Yamaha H2 outboard concept was on display for attendees at the 2024 Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas, Nev., in November.

The Yamaha H2 outboard concept was on display at the 2024 Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) show. (Photo: Business Wire)

Yamaha, Regulator and Roush highlighted the future of propulsion at SEMA, setting the stage for a crossover between marine and automotive innovation, Yamaha said. Intending to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035 for operations and 2050 for products, Yamaha said it is championing a multi-technology approach aligned with SEMA initiatives to motivate others in the industry to pursue carbon neutrality within product lines.

“Why did we decide to exhibit at SEMA? Because Yamaha and SEMA share a belief that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for carbon-neutral products, and hydrogen is a formidable contender for the future of cleaner internal combustion engines,” said Grant Suzuki, chief of technology for the Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit. “Internal combustion will continue to be a necessary component in recreational boating. We’re also advocating publicly for sustainable fuels, hydrogen and other technologies we can deploy to continue to meet customer expectations.”

Suzuki also participated in a separate panel entitled, “Advanced Fuels and Powertrains: Current Landscape and Innovations.” The panel discussed how the industry can help reduce carbon emissions by adopting various fuel technologies for internal combustion engines (ICE) as well as the powertrains that can work alongside electrification.

Yamaha said its interest in hydrogen technology began in 2003 with early research into alternative energy solutions aimed at reducing environmental impact. Since then, Yamaha has collaborated with various partners to develop hydrogen-powered engines. These efforts align with Yamaha’s broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a more sustainable future, the company said.

Earlier this year Yamaha Motor Co. acquired electric marine propulsion company Torqeedo, expanding Yamaha’s capabilities in electric and hybrid power. Yamaha is also actively researching and promoting the use of sustainable marine fuels as part of ongoing efforts toward carbon neutrality across the industry, the company said.

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