Vessev joins hands with Fullers360 to launch its all-new VS-9 vessel, which they tout to be the first-ever premium tourism electric hydrofoiling vessel. The 9-meter-long vessel is a fusion of electric passenger vessels and advanced hydrofoiling technology. It is currently undergoing sea trials and is expected to start its commercial operations later this year once certified. The VS-9 can carry up to 10 passengers with a service speed that goes as high as 30 knots and a range of 50 nautical miles, owing to its efficient hydrofoiling technology feature. It comes in a luxurious mountain interior design.
Gliding above the waves
The unique hydrofoil feature lets the VS-9 hover above the waves, resulting in a more comfortable ride compared to the conventional vessels that float on the water. This also aims for a very efficient system that features high-precision flaps that let the foils change shape, easily combating harsh weather conditions.
The technical team at Vessev has imitated the techniques used in America’s Cup vessels in an attempt to make its systems more efficient and sturdy. As such, Eric Laakmann, CEO of Vessev, shares that the “system is more difficult to engineer up-front, but results in a very performant vessel that is both more capable and more efficient.”
The company’s marine engineers and boat builders have worked together with Fullers360’s NetZero Maritime decarbonization team to design and make the one-of-a-kind vessel align with commercial and tourism transport requirements.
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Apart from the technology, Vessev also made sure that VS-9 can be charged using the electric charging infrastructure commonly available in most marinas, decreasing its service time. Laakmann shared that this would add value to the commercial side of marine travel, explaining that “During sea trials, we have been running up to three test sessions a day using a standard AC 3-phase connection.”
Sailing towards improvements
Tailored to provide premium tourism services with a seamless seakeeping experience, the launch of the fully electric VS-9 is a significant step towards global decarbonization. The commercialization of this electric hydrofoiling vehicle is expected to explore new horizons in the marine transport industry.
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Beyond the VS-9, Vessev plans to take things up a level with its upcoming VS-18, a bigger hydrofoiling vessel with a 100-passenger capacity and the ability to take on a wide range of routes. Laackmann has confirmed that they are working on this bigger and better version of VS—9, with the hopes of it having “additional seakeeping capability and unlock even more opportunities.”
YouTube: Vessev VS-9
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