Vessev built an electric ferry that almost flies
Vessev has developed the VS-9, a roughly 30-foot electric ferry that lifts its hull above the water on hydrofoils as it gains speed. The smooth, low-wake ride could make small electric vessels more practical for passenger transport, including as a way to connect urban areas without building much new infrastructure.
The VS-9 uses computer-controlled flaps to keep it stable, with the front foil providing most of the lift and the rear foil carrying an in-house electric motor. It can carry a full passenger load for up to 40 nautical miles (74 kilometres) and charge with a typical electric-vehicle charger. The design works best in calmer waters, as waves above about 0.75 metres can hit the hull and reduce comfort and efficiency; Vessev raised a $19 million Series A in August and is initially targeting transit operators, hotels and tour companies.
- Vessev’s electric VS-9 ferry rides above the water on hydrofoils.
- It can travel up to 40 nautical miles with a full passenger load.
- Vessev is targeting transit operators, hotels and tour companies.
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Passenger ferries have long been heavy polluters, burning fuel to transport people across waterways. Electric vessels could reduce emissions, but batteries add weight and take up space. A ferry that lifts its hull above the water as it speeds up could work more efficiently by reducing the resistance created when a vessel sits in the water.
Vessev, a company developing electric water transport, has built the VS-9, a roughly 30-foot ferry designed with hydrofoils—underwater wings that generate lift much like an aeroplane's wings. As the boat accelerates, it rises out of the water and glides along these foils, creating a smoother and faster ride with less disturbance to the surrounding water. Computer-controlled flaps keep it stable during operation.
The VS-9 can carry a full load of passengers for up to 40 nautical miles (74 kilometres) on a single charge using a standard electric-vehicle charger. The design works best in calmer waters, as larger waves can reduce comfort and efficiency. Vessev is now working with transit operators, hotels and tour companies to explore practical uses for this type of vessel.