@Honda: Hypermotive chooses Honda Fuel Cell for development of marine hydrogen power system

Collaboration marks first proof of concept for Honda fuel cell system in Europe – demonstrating its robust performance in harsh marine conditions
Hypermotive’s X-M1 hydrogen power system targets emissions reduction in sector with equivalent greenhouse gases to aviation and trucks/buses
Announcement made at SMM in Hamburg – the world’s leading maritime trade fair and conference event – where the system will be displayed

Hypermotive, a global leader in hydrogen and electric power integration, has chosen Honda to collaborate on the development of a fuel cell-powered marine propulsion system.

Announced at the SMM (Shipbuilding, Machinery and Marine Technology) trade fair, the collaboration will be the first proof of concept for Honda’s latest fuel cell system in Europe, demonstrating the robust and efficient performance it can offer in demanding marine environments.

Hypermotive’s X-M1 is a uniquely scalable, modular system designed to make clean energy transition more accessible and achievable for maritime businesses. It brings sustainable energy and reliable performance to a variety of marine vessels, including passenger ferries, cargo ships, yachts, and more.

Ingo Nyhues, Deputy General Manager, Europe Business Planning & Development, Honda Motor Europe, said: “We are delighted to be collaborating with Hypermotive on this project, given their long-standing leadership in this space. That they have chosen to use Honda fuel cell systems in X-M1 is a fantastic endorsement, and we look forward to demonstrating the efficient performance we can offer within such a demanding environment as the marine sector.

“Not only will this serve as a fantastic proof of concept for our Honda fuel cell system in Europe, but by helping to reduce emissions in the marine sector, this is also the latest step Honda is taking towards achieving carbon neutrality across our products and global operations by 2050.”

Established in 2016 with expertise in electrical systems, fuel cells, and batteries, Hypermotive tackles technical challenges across sectors including automotive, motorsport, rail, and commercial vehicles, helping to simplify the complexities of sustainable energy.

The X-M1 hydrogen power system is ready for adoption across vessels of various ages and tonnage. Its plug-and-play architecture seamlessly integrates with existing ship components, and its modular design promises greater flexibility for those new to hydrogen transition, with simple installation, maintenance, and upgrade options.

Adam Huckstep, CEO, Hypermotive, said: “We believe the benefits of hydrogen power are uniquely suited to the marine environment, with the ability to aid in the reduction of emissions across the sector. By collaborating with Honda on this project, we are able to leverage both their current fuel cell technology and the wider technical innovation that comes from the largest engine manufacturer in the world. Alongside their global environmental ambitions and carbon neutrality targets, we are excited at what we can achieve together.”