“Carbon neutral even on the sea” Yamaha Motor exhibits hydrogen engines and electric propulsion units for boats [Boat Show 2025]

Yamaha as a comprehensive marine manufacturer

A representative from the Marine Business Division said, “Yamaha Motor operates its business on two axes: motorcycles and marine.” The booth, the largest of its kind at this year’s boat show, was lined with a wide variety of products, from a 36-foot (approximately 11 meters) two-story cruiser (equipped with a “flying bridge”) to small boats, the Wave Runner jet ski, outboard motors, and electric boats.

Furthermore, the company also showcased its efforts as a comprehensive marine manufacturer, including a panel display about the fishing boats it manufactures and sells, and a counter introducing boat license classes, demonstrating the breadth of its range.

An electric ship steering system that is friendly to both the environment and people

One of the most notable products was the “Next Generation Electric Ship Maneuvering System ‘HARMO’,” which integrates an electric propulsion unit and steering system. It has already been released in Europe, and it has been decided that it will be released in Japan in June of this year. Its 3.1kW motor allows for zero-emission driving. It is intended for use on leisurely sightseeing boats, and the decision to release it was made after a demonstration experiment was conducted at the Otaru Canal in Hokkaido.

Compared to the diesel engines currently used on many pleasure boats, the new engine has advantages in terms of vibration and noise, and has been well-received by passengers, who comment on the comfortable ride and that “there is no need to worry about seasickness.” Furthermore, the ability to steer the boat with a joystick reduces the burden on the driver. Boatmen have also praised the new system, saying, “It’s become much easier to drive,” and a Yamaha representative proudly states, “We think it’s a groundbreaking product that will also shorten the boatmen’s learning curve.”

Developing hydrogen engines for ships

Another highlight was the “hydrogen outboard motor” currently under development. Although it was just a prototype exhibit, Yamaha is considering using hydrogen engines in outboard motors in order to achieve carbon neutrality in the marine sector. Boats that run on water require approximately 10 times the energy of a car, and depending on the type of boat, it is difficult to install sufficient batteries, which places a limit on electrification. The company believes that multi-path initiatives are important when it comes to outboard motors as well, and is therefore working on the development of hydrogen engines with a long-term perspective.