In Auckland, New Zealand, a sleek, electric hydrofoil boat is gliding above the waves, promising a greener, smoother ride for passengers. Vessev’s VS-9, now in commercial service with Fullers360, combines cutting-edge hydrofoil technology with electric propulsion to slash energy use by up to 90%, offering a glimpse into the future of marine transport. This game-changing vessel, inspired by America’s Cup yacht tech, is turning heads for its efficiency and comfort, appealing to eco-conscious ferry operators and tourism businesses alike.

Hydrofoil Tech Meets Electric Power

The VS-9’s magic lies in its hydrofoils—underwater wings that lift the boat 1.6 feet above the water at 22 mph, slashing drag and boosting efficiency. Paired with a 98.6 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, similar to those in electric trucks, it achieves a 50-mile range with one passenger, or 40 miles with 10. “This combination is three to five times more efficient than traditional boats,” says Vessev CEO Eric Laakmann, a former Apple product lead. “It’s a synergy made in heaven.” The boat cruises at 29 mph, hits a top speed of 35 mph, and charges via standard 22 kW Type 2 car chargers at marinas, costing just $5 for a 30-minute ride compared to $83 for a fossil-fuel boat.

Vessev’s Vs-9 Electric Hydrofoil Boat Redefines Smooth, Sustainable Water Travel

Smoother Rides, Lower Costs

For passengers, the VS-9 delivers a ride “more like flying than sailing,” with minimal wake and stable turns, even in choppy waters. Auckland test riders noted a seamless shift to foiling mode at 22 mph, guided by sensors and actuators for effortless piloting. Fullers360, New Zealand’s largest ferry operator, is using the VS-9 for premium tourism trips, like 40-minute tours of Auckland’s harbor, priced at $120 per ticket. For operators, the savings are massive: harbor ferries burning cubic yards of fuel daily can cut costs dramatically, aligning with Fullers360’s 2040 zero-emissions goal.

Scaling Up: The VS-18 and Beyond

Vessev isn’t stopping at the 10-passenger VS-9, priced at $620,000. The company is developing the VS-18, an 59-foot, 100-passenger ferry with wider foils for even greater efficiency. “The benefits scale up,” Laakmann explains, eyeing larger vessels up to 131 feet. With only 100 electric hydrofoils among 33 million boats worldwide, Vessev sees a vast market—1% adoption could mean 330,000 vessels. Island resorts are already eyeing fleets, drawn by low running costs and eco-friendly appeal.

Industry Trends and Challenges

The electric hydrofoil market is heating up, with players like Candela also pushing boundaries. Unlike the concentrated automotive sector, boat manufacturing’s 20,000+ builders favor customization, giving Vessev’s modular VS-9 platform an edge for water taxis, workboats, or recreational crafts. However, challenges remain: the VS-9’s current axial flux motor is noisier than expected, though a quieter, direct-drive 40 kW system hits the water in July 2025. Regulatory hurdles also loom, as commercial certification, like Maritime New Zealand’s approval, demands rigorous safety standards.

EVXL’s Take

The VS-9 isn’t just a boat—it’s a wake-up call for marine transport. Its blend of hydrofoil finesse and EV tech feels like something Tony Stark might dock at his coastal villa, yet it’s practical enough for everyday ferries. For EV enthusiasts, it’s a reminder that electrification isn’t just for roads; it’s transforming waves, too. We’re betting Vessev’s next move with the VS-18 will make bigger splashes, especially if they nail the noise issue. For now, Auckland’s tourists are cruising into the future, and we’re jealous of their view.

Photos courtesy of Fuller360