The Japanese group Yanmar, which is known for its marine and public works machinery engines, is developing a hydrogen engine as part of the Nippon Foundation‘s “Zero-Emission Ship Project.”

This is a 4-stroke engine that will burn hydrogen instead of diesel. It is intended for ships operating along the coast. Based on a 6-cylinder engine, this high-speed engine will be able to run on a mixture of biofuel and hydrogen, or on hydrogen alone. In fact, it will be used to generate electricity on board, without emitting CO2. Yanmar will begin land trials this year, with sea trials in 2026.

Besides this hydrogen engine, Yanmar will be working on the conversion of a hybrid vessel to hydrogen, using hydrogen generators and batteries.

The aim is to offer carbon-neutral solutions on Japanese coasts by 2030.

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Article written by Laurent Meillaud and translated by Logan King