The start-up company Vessev, focusing on water transport, unveiled the VS-9 – a 10-passenger America’s Cup-style hydrofoil electric ferry. It is efficient, quiet, green, and presented as the most accessible electric commercial vessel. The VS-9 saves up to 95% in fuel costs in comparison to traditional vessels powered by diesel or gasoline. The starting price is US$620,000.
With DC charging, the VS-9 is able to charge at a rate of 0.8 nautical miles (1.5 km) of foiling range per minute. The hydrofoil lifts the VS-9 around 3 ft (nearly 1 meter) above the water’s surface and reaches a cruising speed of 25 knots (29 mph, or 46 kph) and a maximum speed of 30 knots (35 mph, or 56 kph). Hence, the hydrofoil system enables a very smooth ride, even through rough water. Other specs include a length of 29.4 ft (8.95 meters) and a weight of 8,000 lb (3,629 kg) with a maximum passenger occupancy. Moreover, the battery range is 50 nautical miles (58 miles, or 93 kilometers).
“We are in the earliest stage of a global transition to sustainable energy use,” said Eric Laakman, the CEO of Vessev. “Our partnership with NetZero Maritime is one of the most powerful in the world in accelerating the adoption of new technologies. There are 33 million vessels in the world today with sustainable vessels representing the smallest fraction. Through significant enhancements in efficiency, hydrofoiling will play a key role in this once-in-a-generation shift”.
The company will also cooperate with the largest ferry company in New Zealand, Fuller360. Mike Horne, Fullers360’s CEO, stated, “It’s our intention for Fullers360 to be 100% electric or hydrogen operated by 2040, and foiling is absolutely a part of that vision for us… with the VS-9 being the first fully electric passenger vessel to operate in Auckland.“
Vessev is a global leader in sustainable marine technology and was founded in 2017.
