Japan’s biggest car, motorcycle makers co-develop hydrogen vehicle for Dakar 2024

MANILA: The Hydrogen Small Mobility and Engine Technology (HySE) research association, composed of Kawasaki Motors Limited, Suzuki Motor Corporation, Honda Motor Company, Yamaha Motor Company, Kawasaki Heavy Industries Limited, and Toyota Motor Corporation, will participate at the Dakar Rally 2024 with its hydrogen electric vehicle, the HySE-X1.

The HySE-X1 will join the Mission 1000 Challenge, a new part of the Dakar Future Program that aims to encourage car manufacturers to create hybrid vehicles that use biofuels or hydrogen engines as the primary fuel source.

“We have decided to participate in the Dakar Rally, which we know has a rich history and tradition. Our main reason for participating is to give us the chance to communicate the results of our research in a way that's easy to understand,” HySE Chairman and Yamaha Motor Company Technical Research and Development Center Executive Officer Kenji Komatsu stated.

“Also, by participating in the event, we can identify potential issues and refine our technology to solve the technical themes required for the establishment of hydrogen small mobility as soon as possible,” he added.

Built on a chassis designed by HySE partner company Overdrive Racing, the HySE-X1 that will compete in the rally has been reworked to make room for a hydrogen fuel tank and fuel supply system. It is propelled by the hydrogen engine for motorcycles that HySE is using for its research projects. Overdrive Racing will handle maintenance and hydrogen refueling.

A mockup of the HySE-X1 will be displayed in the Motorsports Program booth at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 that will be held on October 25 to November 5.

Photos from Toyota Motor Corporation

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