Yamaha Motor to Join Proof of Concept Project with Finnish NPO Cefmof for Sauna Boat Utilizing Hydrogen Energy - Supplying HARMO electric boat control systems to explore new marine applications combining hydrogen and electric power -
July 23, 2026
IWATA, July 23, 2026 - Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) will join a development and proof of concept (PoC) project for a hydrogen-powered sauna boat with Finnish non-profit organization Central Finland Mobility Foundation (hereinafter, "Cefmof").*¹
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.*² This 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 highly efficient thrust, with particularly strong propulsion at low speeds. Its low vibration and quiet operation offer passengers a comfortable onboard environment while achieving smooth handling and excellent maneuverability.
For this project, Yamaha Motor will supply HARMO units and offer technical and personnel support for its installation on the boat. Note that this is a PoC project and future commercialization or sales are not being considered at this time. Once developed, the sauna boat is scheduled to be unveiled at Rally Finland, a round of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), to be held in Finland from July 30, 2026.
This initiative aligns with Yamaha Motor's multi-pathway approach to sustainability and the realization of a decarbonized society. In addition to electrification, Yamaha Motor will continue to explore the potential in hydrogen and various other energy sources as it aims to reduce environmental impact as well as create new value.
*1 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.
*2 A new type of sauna jointly developed by Harvia Plc and Toyota Motor Corporation that utilizes heat generated by the combustion of hydrogen.
Hydrogen sauna boat
HARMO units installed on the Hydrogen sauna boat
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.*² This 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 highly efficient thrust, with particularly strong propulsion at low speeds. Its low vibration and quiet operation offer passengers a comfortable onboard environment while achieving smooth handling and excellent maneuverability.
For this project, Yamaha Motor will supply HARMO units and offer technical and personnel support for its installation on the boat. Note that this is a PoC project and future commercialization or sales are not being considered at this time. Once developed, the sauna boat is scheduled to be unveiled at Rally Finland, a round of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), to be held in Finland from July 30, 2026.
This initiative aligns with Yamaha Motor's multi-pathway approach to sustainability and the realization of a decarbonized society. In addition to electrification, Yamaha Motor will continue to explore the potential in hydrogen and various other energy sources as it aims to reduce environmental impact as well as create new value.
*1 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.
*2 A new type of sauna jointly developed by Harvia Plc and Toyota Motor Corporation that utilizes heat generated by the combustion of hydrogen.
Hydrogen sauna boat
