Vessev Demonstrates Electric Hydrofoil on Potomac River

The company showcased its 10-passenger VS-9 water taxi in Washington to highlight potential urban waterborne commuting options.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Electric Vehicles

Vessev Demonstrates Electric Hydrofoil on Potomac River

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Vessev performed a demonstration of its battery-powered VS-9 hydrofoil water taxi on the Potomac River in early October 2026. The vessel is designed to offer a zero-emission alternative for urban transit and passenger travel.

Why it matters

This demonstration highlights the potential for electric hydrofoils to address urban congestion and waterborne commuting needs in Washington D.C. Vessev is simultaneously working to bridge the lack of charging infrastructure through proprietary marina-based battery concepts.

The VS-9 reaches a cruising speed of 25 knots and provides a range of 40 nautical miles when carrying 10 passengers. Its 105 kWh battery can be replenished in one hour via fast DC charging or 20 hours using standard shore power.

The players

Vessev

This company is an innovator in electric hydrofoil vessels and is currently developing battery-based charging solutions for marine use.

Eric Laakmann

He is the CEO of Vessev and a former Apple employee who is leading the development of the company's electric watercraft.

FlyTahoe

This organization is the first announced US customer for the Vessev VS-9 hydrofoil vessel.

The details

The VS-9 operates by retracting its hydrofoil struts until clear of a marina, subsequently lowering them to lift the hull and reduce drag. Vessev is currently expanding its product line, with plans to develop a larger 30-passenger model designated as the VS-12.

The Jones Act was enacted in 1920.
FlyTahoe was announced as the first US customer in August 2026.
A study of future ferry service was prepared in September 2026.
Vessev demonstrated the VS-9 on the Potomac in early October 2026.

Roadmap

The deployment of these hydrofoils highlights the marine industry's broader shift toward electrification to bypass fuel dependencies. Vessev must navigate the complex regulatory requirements of the Jones Act as it attempts to scale its operations against established regional ferry competitors.

Potential adoption of these vessels could eventually offer commuters in Washington D.C. a new, efficient mode of waterborne transit. However, availability currently depends on Vessev's ability to establish domestic production facilities and local charging infrastructure.

The takeaway

Hydrofoil technology offers a high-speed, zero-emission solution that could reshape how coastal and river cities manage water transport. Implementation will rely heavily on overcoming infrastructure gaps and adhering to long-standing maritime manufacturing regulations.