Last month, Yamaha Motor announced plans to join a development and proof of concept (PoC) project for a hydrogen-powered sauna boat with Finnish non-profit organization Central Finland Mobility Foundation (Cefmof). Cefmof is a non-profit organization established by the City of Jyväskylä, Finland, the Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team, and the Toyota Mobility Foundation. It is engaged in promoting carbon neutrality through sustainable mobility and urban development.
In this project, electricity generated using hydrogen fuel cells and hydrogen cartridges will be used to power Yamaha Motor's Harmo electric boat control system to propel the boat, while also running a hydrogen sauna—a new type of sauna jointly developed by Harvia Plc and Toyota Motor that uses heat generated by the combustion of hydrogen.
The project will be Yamaha Motor's first initiative to explore a marine application combining hydrogen and electric power in this way, in collaboration with external organizations.
Harmo is a boat control and propulsion system that integrates an electric propulsion unit, steering system and other components. By adopting a rim-drive propulsion setup, it delivers efficient thrust with strong propulsion at low speeds. Its low vibration and quiet operation offer passengers a comfortable onboard environment while achieving smooth handling and excellent maneuverability, according to the company.
For the project, Yamaha Motor will supply Harmo units and offer technical and personnel support for its installation on the boat. The company said future commercialization or sales are not being considered at this time.
Harmo units installed on the Hydrogen sauna boat.Yamaha Motor
