Yamaha has recently taken a significant step in the world of alternative energy vehicles by introducing the Drive H2, its first concept vehicle powered by hydrogen. Yamaha’s ongoing efforts are a step towards exploring sustainable fuel options, a journey that started in earnest a couple of years ago.
The car has two hydrogen tanks, with each tank having a 25-litre capacity
The unveiling of the Drive H2 occurred at the 2024 PGA Show in Florida. This vehicle is a modified version of Yamaha’s existing Drive2 Concierge 4 personal golf car, equipped with two hydrogen tanks. Each of these tanks can store up to 25 liters of hydrogen. One tank is positioned at the back of the car, while the other is situated under the driver’s seat.
Yamaha’s path to this innovation began in January 2022 with the announcement of a partnership with Kawasaki to develop hydrogen engines. This was followed by a collaboration with Toyota on a 5-liter V8 hydrogen engine. The commitment of Yamaha to hydrogen as a fuel source was reiterated by their president, Yoshihiro Hidaka, in mid-2023.
The adoption of hydrogen technology in vehicles, however, is not without its challenges. The main obstacle is the need for a supportive infrastructure, similar to the challenges faced by electric vehicles. The availability of hydrogen refueling stations is crucial for the widespread use of such vehicles.
While Yamaha has focused on a golf car for its hydrogen venture, the motorcycle segment is still an area of potential expansion. To date, Kawasaki and Suzuki have been the front runners in developing hydrogen-powered motorcycles. Given Yamaha’s history and the pace at which they are embracing new technologies, further developments in this area could be on the horizon.
RELATED:
- Yamaha Y-01W AWD e-bike concept with dual motors teased ahead of its unveiling
- Yamaha’s new three-wheeled EV with triple-wheel steering, the Tricera, announced
- Xiaomi Band 8 Genshin Impact custom edion get a huge discount.
- Best Smartphones Awards 2023 – Gizmochina
(Via)
