Rethinking Power for Outdoor Equipment
Electrification has become more common in small machinery, but it isn’t always a viable option—especially for professionals working under high loads for extended hours. That’s where Maruyama’s hydrogen-powered two-stroke engine comes in:
A power source that offers the rugged performance of traditional engines while producing virtually no carbon emissions.
Unlike four-stroke engines, two-stroke engines have no intake or exhaust valves, making them simpler, lighter, and more suited to portable use. By reengineering the combustion process for hydrogen fuel, we’ve achieved stable and safe operation even in the compact two-stroke format.
How It Works: Innovation at Every Step
Designing a hydrogen-powered engine is not without challenges. Hydrogen is highly flammable and prone to pre-ignition—a dangerous condition where fuel combusts before the spark plug fires. To overcome this, Maruyama engineers optimized both fuel injection timing and combustion chamber design.
- Hydrogen fuel is injected in a low-temperature environment before compression, minimizing pre-ignition risk.
- An offset cylinder design reduces residual high-temperature gases.
- Scavenging—the clearing of exhaust gases—is done with cool air to maintain a stable combustion temperature.
The result is an engine that is safe, efficient, and nearly emission-free, emitting primarily water vapor (H₂O) as exhaust. Even more impressive, it can operate while being carried, tilted, or used in variable field conditions—making it ideal for handheld agricultural tools.
What’s Next: Toward Real-World Applications
The achievement has already generated attention across media and social platforms, with excitement around what it could mean for future tools—and even motorcycles.
Looking ahead, Maruyama is exploring:
- A cassette gas cylinder system for practical refueling
- Further miniaturization of components
- Field-ready prototypes for outdoor use
If successful, this could bring hydrogen power to a broader range of compact machines, offering professionals cleaner options without sacrificing performance.
A Step Toward Carbon Neutrality
Maruyama Seisakusho has long pursued innovations that serve both people and the planet. This hydrogen engine isn’t just a technical first—it’s a meaningful step toward more sustainable professional equipment that doesn’t compromise on power, safety, or usability.
As we continue to explore new fuel technologies, our mission remains the same:
To treat people and matters with sincerity—and to build a better future through innovation.
