Suzuki unveiled its groundbreaking hydrogen-powered scooter, the Suzuki Burgman, at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show. This innovative prototype marked a pivotal moment in the motorcycle industry, showcasing Suzuki’s commitment to pioneering green technology and redefining the future of urban commuting.
For over a decade, Suzuki had been at the forefront of developing hydrogen-powered motorcycles. The company had previously showcased several prototypes at the Tokyo Motor Show, demonstrating its commitment to exploring alternative fuel technologies. The latest iteration of the Suzuki Burgman scooter, however, represented a bold new approach.
Suzuki, along with fellow Japanese motorcycle giants Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha, had been tirelessly working on hydrogen fuel technology for over a decade. The journey began with various prototypes, each iteration bringing Suzuki closer to a viable hydrogen-powered vehicle. The latest Burgman prototype emerged as the culmination of these efforts, representing a significant advancement in hydrogen-powered mobility.
What set the hydrogen-powered Suzuki Burgman apart was its departure from the conventional hydrogen fuel cell mechanism. Instead of using fuel cells to power an electric motor, Suzuki’s engineers modified the existing single-cylinder engine of the gas-powered Burgman 400 to run on hydrogen fuel.
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Although detailed specifications of the hydrogen engine are yet to be disclosed, it is expected to feature a direct fuel injection system. This innovative approach involved burning hydrogen directly in the engine, a method that posed considerable engineering challenges but promised significant environmental benefits.
The new hydrogen-powered Burgman featured several notable design changes and technological innovations. The hydrogen fuel tank, capable of storing fuel at a pressure of around 10,000 psi, was strategically placed between the rider’s feet. To accommodate this tank, the engine and drivetrain were shifted backwards, resulting in a longer wheelbase. Despite these modifications, the scooter retained ample under-seat storage space, a significant improvement over previous prototypes that used hydrogen cells.
Suzuki’s unveiling of the Burgman at the Japan Mobility Show underscored its influential role in the Hydrogen Small Mobility & Engine Technology (HySE) group. This collaboration with Honda, Yamaha, and Kawasaki focused on developing and promoting hydrogen fuel as a clean energy source for small vehicles. Suzuki’s contributions to HySE included rigorous studies on the functionality, performance, and reliability of hydrogen-powered engines, culminating in the innovative Burgman prototype.
Suzuki’s Hydrogen Journey
Suzuki’s journey with hydrogen fuel cells began in 2007 with the Crosscage concept, developed in collaboration with British company Intelligent Energy. This partnership led to the creation of several hydrogen-powered prototypes, including those used in an 18-month trial by the Metropolitan Police in London from 2017 to 2018. These earlier models used hydrogen fuel cells to power electric motors, offering the clean-running benefits of electric power with the quick refueling advantage of hydrogen tanks.
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“Suzuki are extremely honored to be able to showcase the Burgman Fuel Cell and gain valuable feedback from this important trial with the Met,” says Suzuki GB Managing Director, Nobuo Suyama, expressing his gratitude to the fleet trial partners. “Operational data from the trial will be gathered and used to support Suzuki zero emission vehicle development programs.“
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The introduction of the hydrogen-powered Burgman represented a significant milestone in the evolution of sustainable transportation. Previous models of the Burgman, produced since 2010, relied on hydrogen fuel cells to power electric motors. The new prototype’s use of a modified internal combustion engine to burn hydrogen marked a bold departure from this approach, showcasing Suzuki’s innovative spirit and technical prowess.
The 2023 Japan Mobility Show provided the perfect platform for Suzuki to showcase its latest engineering marvel. The hydrogen-powered Suzuki Burgman stood as a symbol of the company’s dedication to sustainable innovation. By adopting a hydrogen-burning engine, Suzuki not only demonstrated a commitment to reducing emissions but also highlighted the potential of hydrogen as a viable alternative to fossil fuels.
