Vessev built an electric ferry that almost flies

This electric ferry technology can now offer urban commuters a significantly smoother and faster water transit experience.

Vessev, a startup that has raised $19 million in Series A funding, has developed the VS-9, an electric hydrofoil ferry. This 30-foot vessel utilizes submerged wing-like foils to lift its hull out of the water as it gains speed, reducing drag and offering a smoother ride. Computer-controlled flaps on the foils ensure stability, with the front foil providing most of the lift and the rear foil housing an in-house designed electric motor. The batteries are a commoditized component, with Vessev focusing on controlling costs by manufacturing key parts internally. The VS-9 can travel up to 40 nautical miles on a single charge and is designed for calmer waterways like rivers, lakes, and bays, where wave height is less than two and a half feet. Vessev is targeting transit operations, hotels, and tour operators, with potential applications in urban mass transit systems.

The development of electric hydrofoils like Vessev's VS-9 signals a potential future for efficient, low-drag water transportation in urban environments. By lifting the hull above the water, these vessels drastically reduce energy consumption compared to traditional boats, making electric propulsion more viable for longer ranges and higher speeds. This technology could augment existing mass transit systems, offering a new mode of transport that is both environmentally friendly and potentially cost-effective for operators in the long run.

Vessev's strategy of in-house motor production, while sourcing commoditized batteries, highlights a growing trend among EV manufacturers to control core technologies while leveraging established supply chains for other components. This approach allows them to optimize performance and manage costs more effectively. As hydrofoil technology matures, it could also open opportunities for other boatbuilders to integrate these systems into their own designs, democratizing the technology across the maritime sector.