Hydrogen-powered passenger vessel HANARIA, armed with Yanmar's Maritime Hydrogen Fuel Cell System, crowned Marine Engineering of the Year 2024.
Yanmar's Innovative Hydrogen Fuel Cell System Powers Award-Winning Passenger Ship HANARIA
The HANARIA passenger ship, operated by MOL Techno-Trade, Ltd., has made headlines with its groundbreaking propulsion system. This vessel, Japan's first hybrid passenger ship, is powered by both hydrogen and biodiesel, and it has been selected as the "Ship of the Year 2024."
The maritime hydrogen fuel cell system on the HANARIA is provided by Yanmar Power Technology Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of the Yanmar Group. This system, the Group's first foray into maritime hydrogen fuel cells, has been integrated into the ship and is paired with a proprietary lithium-ion battery system developed by Yanmar.
The Yanmar Group's commitment to sustainability is evident in this innovative technology. Their YANMAR GREEN CHALLENGE 2050 initiative aims to provide decarbonization solutions that meet customer needs.
The GH240FC system, as demonstrated on the HANARIA, offers several key innovations. It supports dual operation modes: a zero-emission mode using exclusively hydrogen fuel cells combined with lithium-ion batteries, and a hybrid mode that optimizes efficiency by combining the fuel cells with other power sources.
The system is designed to minimize protrusions, enhancing the vessel’s aesthetics and ease of maintenance. Its distinctive Yanmar Premium Red color contributes to brand identity and recognition.
The GH240FC's advanced engineering and design quality have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Marine Engineering of the Year 2024 (Dokou Memorial Award) and the Red Dot Design Award 2025. These accolades signify industry-leading innovation and excellence.
By enabling zero-emission operation modes, the system significantly reduces the environmental impact, which is critical for passenger vessels operating in urban or ecologically sensitive maritime areas.
In summary, the GH240FC system on the HANARIA offers an innovative hydrogen fuel cell solution with flexible operation, aesthetic and maintenance improvements, award-winning design, and a focus on zero-emission maritime propulsion. This groundbreaking technology is a testament to Yanmar's commitment to sustainability and its vision for a greener future.
[1] Yanmar Power Technology Co., Ltd. Press Release [2] Yanmar Power Technology Co., Ltd. Press Release [3] Japan Institute of Marine Engineering Award Announcement [4] Red Dot Design Award 2025 Winner List [5] Yanmar Power Technology Co., Ltd. Press Release
- Yanmar's GH240FC hydrogen fuel cell system, installed on the award-winning passenger ship HANARIA, is a significant step forward in the maritime industry's pursuit of renewable-energy and environmental-science solutions, aligning with the Group's YANMAR GREEN CHALLENGE 2050 initiative.
- The innovation of hydrogen fuel cells, as demonstrated through the GH240FC system, provides a unique opportunity for finance, science, and technology sectors to collaborate, contributing to climate-change mitigation efforts.
- Yanmar's push for sustainability has been further validated with the system's prestigious awards, including the Marine Engineering of the Year 2024 (Dokou Memorial Award) and the Red Dot Design Award 2025, reflecting its impact on the industry and message for a cleaner environment.
- The integration of hydrogen fuel cells into the maritime industry is expected to spark greater innovation and competition in the field of environmental-science and renewable-energy, setting new standards for energy-efficient and eco-friendly vessels.
- By adopting hydrogen fuel cells and other sustainable technologies, the industry can fulfill its responsibility towards the environment while ensuring the future growth and prosperity of our planet.