Vessev unveils electric hydrofoil ferry VS-9 with $19M funding

Vessev, a New York-based startup, has introduced the VS-9, an electric hydrofoil ferry designed to reduce wake and improve efficiency. The company recently raised $19 million in Series A funding to bring the vessel to markets like transit agencies, hotels, and tour operators.

The VS-9: A New Approach to Electric Ferries

Vessev, a New York-based startup, has unveiled the VS-9, an electric hydrofoil ferry designed to operate with significantly reduced wake compared to traditional vessels. According to TechCrunch, the ferry leverages hydrofoil technology, which lifts the hull above the water’s surface to minimize drag and improve energy efficiency.

The VS-9 measures approximately 30 feet in length and can carry passengers up to 40 nautical miles (about 46 miles or 74 kilometers) on a single charge. The company manufactures its own electric motor but relies on commoditized batteries, which it sources externally. The ferry is designed to charge using a standard electric vehicle (EV) charger, simplifying infrastructure requirements.

How Hydrofoil Technology Works

Hydrofoil technology is not new—it has been experimented with for over a century—but Vessev’s implementation focuses on stability and efficiency. The VS-9 uses computer-controlled underwater flaps to keep the ride smooth, with about 80% of the lift generated by the front foil and 20% by the rear. This design allows the ferry to glide above the water at speeds where traditional hulls would create significant wake.

The technology is best suited for calmer waters, such as rivers, lakes, and bays. The VS-9 requires roughly 0.75 meters of clearance to operate effectively on its foils, making it less ideal for open ocean conditions or choppy seas.

Funding and Market Targets

Vessev recently closed a $19 million Series A funding round, though the lead investors were not disclosed. The company plans to use the capital to scale production and target early markets, including transit operators, hotels, and tour companies. These sectors are likely to value the ferry’s low wake, efficiency, and passenger comfort, particularly in urban settings.

According to TechCrunch, cities like New York could benefit from hydrofoil ferries for transit between boroughs like Brooklyn and Queens, without requiring significant new infrastructure. The reduced operating costs and improved ride quality could make the VS-9 an attractive alternative to traditional ferries.

What this means

Lazyfounder analysis — our interpretation, not reported fact.

Vessev’s VS-9 represents a fresh take on urban mobility, particularly for cities with waterways. Hydrofoil technology isn’t new, but combining it with electric propulsion could address some of the pain points of traditional ferries, like wake restrictions and high operating costs. For founders and operators, this is a reminder that incremental innovations—like optimizing existing technologies for niche markets—can unlock new opportunities without reinventing the wheel.

The focus on transit agencies, hotels, and tour operators suggests Vessev is prioritizing B2B customers with clear use cases. However, scaling will depend on proving reliability in real-world conditions and navigating regulatory hurdles, especially in dense urban areas like New York City. If successful, the VS-9 could inspire similar solutions in other coastal cities, but execution will be key.

Key takeaways

• Vessev’s VS-9 electric hydrofoil ferry aims to improve efficiency and reduce wake compared to traditional ferries.
• The company raised $19 million in Series A funding to target early markets like transit operators, hotels, and tour companies.
• Hydrofoil technology is best suited for calmer waters, such as rivers, lakes, and bays, rather than open ocean conditions.
• The VS-9 can travel up to 40 nautical miles on a single charge and uses a proprietary electric motor but commoditized batteries.
• Potential applications include urban transit, where reduced operating costs and improved comfort could be major selling points.

FAQ

What is the VS-9 ferry?

The VS-9 is an electric hydrofoil ferry developed by Vessev. It uses hydrofoil technology to lift the hull above the water, reducing drag and improving efficiency while minimizing wake.

How far can the VS-9 travel on a single charge?

The VS-9 can carry passengers up to 40 nautical miles (approximately 46 miles or 74 kilometers) on a single charge.

Who are Vessev’s target customers?

Vessev is targeting transit operators, hotels, and tour companies as early markets for the VS-9. The ferry’s low wake and efficiency make it ideal for urban transit and leisure applications.

What are the advantages of hydrofoil technology for ferries?

Hydrofoil technology reduces drag by lifting the hull above the water, improving energy efficiency and passenger comfort. It also minimizes wake, which is a key advantage in urban waterways.

Why is the VS-9 not suitable for open ocean conditions?

The VS-9 requires calmer waters to operate effectively on its foils. Rough conditions, like those found in the open ocean, can disrupt its performance and stability.

Related on Lazyfounder

• More technology news