Yanmar Leads Japan in Hydrogen Engine Innovation
Yanmar Power Solutions Co., Ltd. has made a significant breakthrough in the maritime industry by becoming the first engine manufacturer in Japan to secure both type approval and NOx certification from Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK). This achievement pertains to their pilot-ignition hydrogen-fueled 4-stroke high-speed engine, designed for power generation in domestic coastal vessels. This development is part of the Nippon Foundation’s ambitious Zero Emission Ships Project, aimed at reducing carbon emissions in shipping.
Certification Milestones and Future Plans
In 2025, Yanmar Power Solutions ramped up its efforts to conduct land-based demonstration tests using a small quantity of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) as a pilot fuel. The company successfully obtained the type approval certificate in October 2025, followed by the NOx certificate in December 2025. These certifications are essential for the upcoming demonstration operations of their hydrogen engine, which is categorized as an “Electronically Controlled Gas Only Engine (Hydrogen).”
Looking ahead, Yanmar plans to equip domestic coastal vessels with two hydrogen engines, setting the stage for demonstration trials scheduled for this fall. This initiative underscores Yanmar’s commitment to advancing carbon neutrality in the shipping sector. By implementing hydrogen engines, the company aims to contribute to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals. The successful integration of this technology could pave the way for a greener future in maritime transportation.
