Yamaha Motor and Toyota Motor Corporation have teamed up to create a hydrogen-powered 5.0-liter V8 engine for automobiles. Toyota and other automakers in Japan are ready to embark on a coordinated effort to broaden the variety of fuel alternatives for internal combustion engines.
The new hydrogen powertrain is based on the 5.0-liter engine used in the Lexus RC F premium performance coupe, with injectors, cylinder heads, intake manifold, and other components modified. Yamaha claims 450 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and a maximum torque of 540 Nm at 3,600 rpm.
“Hydrogen engines have an innately friendly feel that makes them easy to use even without resorting to electronic driving aids,” said Takeshi Yamada from the Technical Research & Development Center’s Automotive Development Section.
“Everyone who came to test-drive the prototype car would start off somewhat skeptical but emerged from the car with a big smile on their face at the end.”
The two firms have previously enjoyed close liaisons. They collaborated on the Lexus LFA hypercar’s 552bhp 4.8-liter V10, a huge success. Carmakers are now pushing for more eco-friendly solutions.
“Hydrogen engines have the potential to be carbon-neutral while keeping our passion for the internal combustion engine alive,” President Hidaka stated.
Yamaha emphasizes the loud sound of the V8 engine, which may be kept by modifying it to use a different type of fuel. Toyota noted the same thing with its hydrogen-powered GR Yaris H2? prototype, which debuted last year, highlighting the technology’s potential to serve the sports vehicle market in particular.