Vessev’s VS–9 is described as “the world’s first premium electric hydrofoil vessel engineered to commercial standards, combining advanced sustainability and performance with design.” (Photo courtesy Vessev)
Vessev’s VS–9 is reported to carry up to 10 passengers, achieve a top speed of 30 knots, and offer a range of 40 to 50 nautical miles.
AUCKLAND, New Zealand—Vessev is pioneering electric hydrofoil vessels to create a cleaner, more connected future on the water. The company combines advanced engineering, design innovation, and a commitment to uplifting people and the planet to deliver “high-efficiency vessels that make sustainable marine transport a reality,” according to a release from Vessev.
The company recently reported that its flagship electric hydrofoiling vessel, the VS–9, has been awarded the prestigious Red Dot Award: Product Design 2025, an international seal of excellence for outstanding design and innovation. The Red Dot Award is described as “one of the world’s largest and most respected design competitions, with winners selected annually by an independent jury of experts.”
“Winning a Red Dot Award is a powerful validation of what we set out to achieve with the VS–9,” said Alain Brideson, lead designer at Vessev, in the release. “When form truly follows function, the result isn’t just a vessel that flies, it’s a vessel that inspires.
“Our objective for the VS–9 was to create something that is beautifully utilitarian. Using the tools of the premium automotive segment, every surface of the VS–9 has been carefully crafted to emanate quality. The entire exterior harmoniously embeds functionality into a clean and balanced form. The interior was all about reducing to the bare essentials and ensuring the cabin is open and flowing.”
Vesev CEO Eric Laakmann said that one of the things he loved about working at Apple was the weight that the design team had within the product development cycle.
“We are bringing some of that magic into the design ethos here at Vessev, Laakmann said in the release. “Our team brings together world-class expertise from fields including rocketry, robotics, industrial design, hydrodynamics, composites, advanced energy storage systems, and traditional boat building. This diversity allows us to reimagine marine electrification with fresh thinking, real-world experience, and a relentless drive to build a better future.”
The Red Dot jury stated that the VS–9 hydrofoil “impresses with its functional simplicity and clean lines. The industrial design and wraparound cabin glazing create a striking visual identity.”
The VS–9’s design focuses on delivering both performance and passenger experience. Its carbon fiber hull, retractable hydrofoil system, and panoramic glazing are engineered to maximize efficiency, reduce wake, and provide greater comfort on the water.
Described as the first of its kind built to commercial standards, the VS–9 carries up to 10 passengers, reaches a top speed of 30 knots, and offers a range of 40 to 50 nautical miles. By combining electric propulsion with hydrofoiling efficiency, it is said to deliver a smoother ride, zero emissions, and significant operational savings compared to traditional petrol (gasoline) or diesel-powered boats.
According to Vessev, Fullers360, New Zealand’s largest ferry operator, has already integrated the VS–9 into its fleet. This marks “the world’s first private commercialization of an electric hydrofoiling vessel,” while also supporting the transition to lower-emission marine transport, the company said.