Japanese firm unveils hydrogen engine that could slash ship emissions by 95%

Japan Engine Corp., based in Akashi, Hyogo Prefecture, announced the world’s first hydrogen-fueled engine designed for large commercial ships, claiming it can cut carbon dioxide output by more than 95% versus conventional heavy-fuel units. The engine employs a high-pressure direct injection system to achieve stable hydrogen combustion and incorporates double-walled piping to mitigate leakage risks. It will be installed on a multipurpose vessel under construction at Onomichi Dockyard Co., with Mitsui O.S.K.

Lines Ltd. slated to begin demonstration runs in April 2028. Earlier, the company completed what it called the first full-scale commercial ammonia engine, reflecting its broader push toward next-generation marine fuels. While hydrogen offers significant emissions benefits, high costs and slow market uptake remain hurdles, and ammonia requires strict safety protocols due to its toxicity. The initiative aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s goal of net-zero greenhouse-gas emissions by 2050 and receives support from the Japanese government.