Source: https://www.dev.motorwatt.com/ev-manufacturers/vessev

# Vessev Electric Vehicle Manufacturer

**Vessev** is a marine technology innovator from New Zealand, pioneering electric hydrofoiling vessels for sustainable transport. The **VS-9**, its first commercial hydrofoil ferry, lifts above waves for 95% energy savings, offering a 25-knot speed and 50-nautical-mile range. The company plans to scale up with larger models.

[ Review by Alex Garin ](https://motorwatt.com/community/electromobili "Review by Alex Garin")

Updated: 18 April 2026

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## About Vessev Manufacturing Company

### **Vessev: The [Tesla](/tesla-motors-product-line "Electric Vehicles Tesla") of Water Transport?**

New Zealand-based **Vessev** is making waves—literally. Founded in **2018 by Max Olson**, the company is leading the shift toward **sustainable marine transport** with its cutting-edge **electric hydrofoiling technology**. By lifting vessels above the water’s surface, Vessev’s boats reduce drag and **cut energy consumption by up to 95%**, making them one of the most efficient electric watercraft on the market.

### **What is Hydrofoiling and Why Does it Matter?**

Hydrofoiling boats aren’t new—New Zealand’s **America’s Cup** teams have been refining them for years. But Vessev is bringing this game-changing tech to **commercial passenger transport**.

- **How it Works**: Hydrofoils act like underwater wings, lifting the hull out of the water to reduce friction.
- **Why it Matters**: This means **higher efficiency, lower energy costs, and zero emissions**, making it a serious contender in the race for sustainable maritime transport.

### **Meet the VS-9: A Game-Changing Electric Ferry**

Vessev’s **VS-9** is its first commercially operational electric hydrofoil ferry.

- **Size**: 9 meters (29.3 feet)
- **Capacity**: 10 passengers
- **Top Speed**: 25 knots (29 mph / 46 km/h)
- **Range**: 50 nautical miles (57.5 miles / 92.6 km) per charge
- **Material**: Carbon fiber for durability and weight savings

The VS-9 **entered commercial service on January 29, 2025**, in partnership with **Fullers360**, the largest ferry operator in New Zealand. It now offers **tourism trips across Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour**, giving passengers a **smooth, silent ride** with none of the emissions of traditional ferries.

### **What Makes the VS-9 Unique?**

Vessev isn’t just building another electric boat—it’s **reinventing how we travel on water**. The **VS-9’s hydrofoils make the ride nearly silent and incredibly stable**, even in rougher waters. Its **carbon-fiber build**, ergonomic interiors, and panoramic windows ensure a **premium passenger experience**.

### **The Cost of Innovation: Is It Worth It?**

- **Price**: US$620,000
- **Long-Term Savings**: Lower fuel and maintenance costs compared to diesel-powered ferries
- **Environmental Impact**: Zero emissions, helping ferry operators meet sustainability goals

For ferry operators like Fullers360—aiming for an **all-electric or hydrogen fleet by 2040**—the upfront cost of the VS-9 is a smart investment in the future of marine travel.

### **Scaling Up: The VS-18 and Beyond**

Vessev isn’t stopping at small passenger ferries. **The VS-18, a 100-passenger version, is already in development**. This move signals **serious ambitions to replace traditional ferries** with high-speed, electric hydrofoil alternatives for urban and regional water transport.

### **Funding and Future Growth**

- **Investors**: Icehouse Ventures, Blackbird Ventures
- **Funds Raised**: NZ$3.6 million
- **Next Steps**: Further funding rounds to expand production and scale globally

### **Is Vessev the Future of Sustainable Marine Travel?**

With its **world-first commercial hydrofoiling ferry**, Vessev is proving that **electric boats can be fast, efficient, and commercially viable**. As cities worldwide look to cut emissions, **electric hydrofoil ferries could soon become a common sight in major waterways**.

For now, **the VS-9 is a glimpse into the future of clean, high-performance water transport**—and it’s already making waves in Auckland.

## Manufacturer Product Line

[ Vessev Product-Line ](/vessev-product-line "Vessev")

### Categories of Manufacturers:

- [Electric Cars \[181\]](/ev-manufacturers/electric-cars)
- [Electric Motorcycles \[148\]](/ev-manufacturers/electric-motorcycles)
- [Electric Bicycles & Scooters \[222\]](/ev-manufacturers/electric-bicycles)
- [Electric Trucks \[84\]](/ev-manufacturers/electric-trucks)
- [Electric Buses \[56\]](/ev-manufacturers/electric-buses)
- [Electric Golfcarts \[61\]](/ev-manufacturers/electric-golfcarts)
- [Electric Quadricycles and Snowmobiles \[35\]](/ev-manufacturers/electric-quadricycles-and-snowmobiles)
- [Electric Water Vehicles \[145\]](/ev-manufacturers/electric-water-vehicles)
- [E-Mobility Gadgets \[6\]](/ev-manufacturers/e-mobility-gadgets)
- [Flying Electric Vehicles \[52\]](/ev-manufacturers/flying-electric-vehicles)
- [EV Charging Stations \[174\]](/ev-manufacturers/ev-charging-stations)
- [EV Batteries & Accessories \[53\]](/ev-manufacturers/ev-batteries-accessories)