Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki, and Suzuki Unite to Revolutionize Small Engines with Hydrogen Power
In a groundbreaking collaboration, four prominent motorcycle manufacturers – Yamaha Motor, Honda Motor, Kawasaki Motors, and Suzuki – have joined forces to establish the Hydrogen Small mobility & Engine technology (HySE) association.
These industry leaders are embarking on a mission to develop hydrogen-powered engines for small mobility vehicles (motorcycles, Japan-originated mini-vehicles, small marine vessels, construction equipment, drones, etc.). This ambitious initiative aims to address the pressing need for a multi-pathway strategy in achieving a decarbonized society.
Hydrogen is considered a next-generation energy source that holds great promise in combating climate change. However, harnessing its potential for practical applications, such as mobility, poses technical challenges.
Fast flame speeds and unstable combustion are among the obstacles to overcome, particularly in small engines. Recognizing the significance of hydrogen as a future fuel, the members of HySE are committed to conducting fundamental research and leveraging their expertise in gasoline-powered engines to pave the way for a standardized design for hydrogen-powered engines in small mobility vehicles.
The collaboration among Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki, and Suzuki represents a collective determination to explore the possibilities of hydrogen-powered engines fully. Each company brings its unique strengths and focus areas to the table, ensuring comprehensive research and development coverage.
Honda, renowned for its engineering excellence, will lead research in model-based development for hydrogen-powered engines. By leveraging advanced simulation techniques, Honda aims to optimize performance, functionality, and reliability.
Suzuki, known for its innovation, will undertake vital research into the fundamental elements of hydrogen-powered engines. This study will involve an in-depth exploration of functionality, performance, and reliability, paving the way for future advancements in this domain.
Yamaha Motor and Kawasaki Motors will actively engage in hands-on research, utilizing real hydrogen-powered engines to evaluate their functionality, performance, and reliability. These practical experiments will provide valuable insights for refining and enhancing the hydrogen-powered engine technology.
In addition to the four motorcycle manufacturers, two prominent entities, Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Toyota Motor Corporation, actively support HySE as special members.
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, drawing on its experience with the “CO2-free Hydrogen Energy Supply-chain Technology Research Association” (HySTRA), will contribute valuable insights to HySE’s activities.
Meanwhile, Toyota will leverage its expertise in large-scale hydrogen-fueled power units for four-wheel vehicles to maximize the benefits of HySE’s research outcomes.
With a shared mission and a wealth of expertise, these industry leaders are committed to establishing a design standard for hydrogen-powered engines while addressing technical challenges. Together, they aim to provide diverse, sustainable mobility options and contribute to a greener and more environmentally friendly future.