Yanmar Sets Sail with Hydrogen-Powered Shipping

Yanmar, a leading engine manufacturer, is making significant strides in developing a hydrogen-fueled 4-stroke high-speed engine for power generation in coastal vessels in Japan. This development is part of the Nippon Foundation's zero emission ship demonstration experiment, with the engine emitting no CO2 during combustion.

In addition to the hydrogen engine, Yanmar Power Technology (YPT) is also working on a hybrid electric propulsion vessel that is compatible with hydrogen engines and batteries. This innovative vessel design incorporates a container unit-type hydrogen power generation system on its upper deck. The development and construction of the vessel will be handled by Uyeno TransTech Co., Ltd., a shipping company in the Uyeno Group.

To further support the transition towards zero emissions in maritime operations, YPT aims to develop a pilot ignition engine that utilizes a small amount of pilot biofuel and hydrogen co-combustion, as well as a spark ignition hydrogen-only engine. The company plans to commence onshore verification tests in 2024 using a 6-cylinder hydrogen engine with pilot ignition, with the goal of conducting verification operations by 2026. Concurrently, YPT will also conduct onshore verification tests using the spark ignition hydrogen-only engine.

By approximately 2030, Yanmar aims to achieve zero emissions for coastal vessels by promoting the adoption of hydrogen energy-based propulsion systems. This ambitious goal aligns with the "Zero-Emission Ship Project" led by the Nippon Foundation, which aims to achieve carbon neutrality in the coastal shipping sector by 2050 through the development of hydrogen-fueled ships.

Through its participation in this project, YPT aims to pioneer the development of hydrogen-powered vessels and conduct demonstration experiments. The consortium for this project includes various stakeholders responsible for detailed vessel design and construction, basic planning, and the design and construction of hydrogen engine container generation units.