While everyone is throwing money into electrification, a few automakers haven't forgotten about hydrogen. Toyota has been putting significant effort towards the fuel source, though not in the way you'd expect. The automaker announced this week that they will support the Energy Observer, a hydrogen-powered autonomous boat.

The Energy Observer will promote renewable energy and test technologies in severe oceanic weather. The vessel is powered by a number of renewable energy sources, allowing it to operate entirely carbon free. Since it doesn't use an electric powertrain, it's noticeably lighter than those that do. It also manages low-level energy supplies more efficiently.

The Energy Observer is led by Victorien Erussard and Jérôme Delafosse, who are hoping to be the first autonomous vessel to sail around the globe. It currently lies in the Mediterranean, with plans of heading to Northern Europe next year. After that, Toyota and the crew aim to reach Tokyo by 2020 for the Olympic Games.