New Zealand-based marine technology company Vessev has been selected to build new electric hydrofoil vessels for ferry operator FlyTahoe of Lake Tahoe in California.
Examples of Vessev's nine-metre electric hydrofoil boat will be supplied in fulfilment of the order.
Vessev said FlyTahoe selected the nine-metre boat its purpose-built commercial design and premium passenger experience, with panoramic glass windows, connecting passengers to Lake Tahoe’s scenery.
"Its efficiency in both size and charging requirements makes it easy to integrate with existing marina infrastructure, and well suited for FlyTahoe’s planned operations," Vessev said in a press release.
The boats will be of all-FRP construction. Each will have seating for up to 10 passengers and a helm operator.
The all-electric propulsion on each vessel will deliver a top speed of 30 knots and a range of 50 nautical miles at a service speed of 25 knots. Power will be supplied by batteries equipped with fire protection systems and other safety features.
Because of the use of hydrofoils, each vessel’s hull can remain 50 cm above the surface of the water while underway, thus allowing the vessel itself to attain high transit speeds without being affected by waves even in bad weather.
The vessels will form part of FlyTahoe’s proposed sustainable water transit network, which is highlighted in the Lake Tahoe Regional Transportation Plan and remains subject to Tahoe Regional Planning Agency permits and approvals. Vessev said FlyTahoe is actively working to obtain the said permits and approvals.