New Zealand company Vessev, which describes itself as a ‘global leader in sustainable marine technology’, has introduced an electric hydrofoil ferry concept, working in conjunction with ferry operator Fullers360 and its decarbonisation team known as NetZero Maritime.
The prototype vessel is soon to enter its final phase of sea trials ahead of commercial certification. Production of the vessels, known as VS-9, has already began with the first scheduled to enter commercial service with Fullers360.
The 9m VS-9 will transport 10 passengers at a service speed of 25 knots and is designed for passenger comfort as well as sustainability.
Vessev CEO Eric Laakmann said: “Traditionally, larger vessels are required to deliver a comfortable passenger experience as they can handle the impact of waves and wake. By flying above the waves, the VS—9 delivers a large vessel experience on an agile platform that can be berthed and charged in nearly any marina. One way of looking at the impact of this vessel is that our waterways today are like roadways, where the only comfortable mode of transportation are very large multi-passenger buses – i.e. ferries. These large vessels are here to stay, but they will be augmented with point-to-point services delivered by vessels such as the VS-9. Through enhanced comfort and reduced operating costs, the VS-9 platform delivers an entirely new transportation experience that hasn’t truly been viable until today.”
At low speeds the VS-9 is stabilised by its foiling technology below the waterline. As the vessel accelerates the America’s Cup-derived foils cause the carbon fibre hull to rise out of the water where it skims 50cm above, clear of turbulent waves and wake.
Mike Horne, CEO Fullers360 added: “Flying on the VS-9’s foils and relaxing into its stylish interior is an unmatched feeling. We are thrilled to see the vessel progress further toward taking its first commercial journey on the Waitematā. Introducing the VS-9 into the Fullers360 fleet and eventually bringing larger electric foiling vessels to life is incredibly exciting for our industry”.
While the initial VS-9 is configured for premium transportation, the platform has been designed from the start to be flexible and scalable. Being a catamaran with a flat wing-deck from bow to stern presents different options for configuration.
Vessev is already working through further enhancements to the vessel’s performance and applying learnings to plans for larger foiling vessels with capacity for more passengers and suitable for a range of routes. The team at Vessev is now scaling its operation with multiple products in development.
Laakmann concluded: “Today, very few people in the world will have been aboard an electric hydrofoiling vessel. Ten years from now though, as this becomes the new way that we move on the water, that is all going to change.”
Image: Vessev’s VS-9 prototype (source: Vessev)
