As part of the ambitious HySE project (Hydrogen Small mobility & Engine technology), four Japanese manufacturers (Kawasaki Motors, Suzuki Motor Corporation, Honda Motor Co, and Yamaha Motor Co) are joining forces to develop hydrogen engines.
This technological research association aims to diversify strategies in response to the increasingly visible impacts of climate change and to break our dependence on fossil fuels. Hydrogen, considered the fuel of the next generation, promises to transform the mobility sector. However, this comes with major technical challenges. For example, the volatility and high flammability of hydrogen can greatly compromise combustion stability in an engine.
Towards a Green Revolution: HySE and the Future of Engines in the World of Quads
The mission of HySE is to overcome the obstacles related to the development of hydrogen engines for small vehicles. The members of this association have a consolidated expertise in the field of gasoline engines. They aim to establish a design standard and advance fundamental research in this field.
Kenji Komatsu, designated president of HySE and General Manager of Yamaha Motor Co’s Technical Research and Development Center, expresses his enthusiasm for this collaboration:
“We are extremely pleased to announce the planned formation of the association. The development of hydrogen engines presents many challenges, but we hope that the association’s activities will advance fundamental research to address these challenges. We are committed to this endeavor with a sense of mission to preserve the use of internal combustion engines, which symbolize the long-standing efforts invested by our predecessors.”
Roles and Responsibilities within HySE
Each company brings a specific contribution to the project:
- Honda focuses on development based on hydrogen engine models.
- Suzuki studies the functionality, performance, and reliability of hydrogen engines.
- Yamaha Motor and Kawasaki Motors conduct practical research using real hydrogen engines.
- Yamaha also studies the requirements for a hydrogen refueling system and tanks suitable for small mobility.
- Kawasaki Motors handles the fuel supply system and necessary auxiliary equipment.
Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Toyota Motor Corporation support HySE
In addition to full members, Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Toyota Motor Corporation join the association as special members.
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, already a leader in the HySTRA project for a CO2-free hydrogen supply chain, brings its expertise to advance HySE activities.
Toyota, on the other hand, utilizes its expertise in experimentation, analysis, and design of large hydrogen-powered units to maximize HySE’s research results.
HySE: Revolution in Motorsports?
This unprecedented collaboration among major players in the Japanese automotive, motorcycle, and quad industries aims not only to innovate but also to provide a variety of mobility options tailored to diverse user needs. It thus contributes to the realization of a decarbonized society.
The HySE initiative could well mark a decisive turning point in the history of motorsports. It once again proves that unity is strength in the race against carbon emissions.
A Hydrogen-Powered Quad at Dakar 2024
An experimental vehicle using HySE technology participated in the famous Dakar at the beginning of the year. Entered in the Mission 1000 class, it surprised many by completing all stages.
The future looks promising for hydrogen engines!
