New Zealand electric hydrofoiling ferry firm expands to US

New Zealand-based electric hydrofoiling ferry company Vessev has opened its first international office in the US to meet increasing demand for its hydrofoiling technology.

The company has appointed Josh Trout as US director to oversee operations, sales and local production from the new office, which is located in Rhode Island.

Trout has over 20 years of experience in marine technology and business development, with expertise in the electric and hybrid marine industry. His role will focus on expanding Vessev’s presence in the US, developing its business strategy and establishing local manufacturing and service support. The firm says it intends to build its VS-9 passenger ferry in the US, and is currently in the process of setting up its US build programme. More exact timelines will be available later in the year. 

Despite volatile conditions and ongoing uncertainty in the US boatbuilding sector, Trout says he believe the timing is right for the move.

“Vessev is confident in the commercial marine sector, especially the growth of electric hydrofoiling vessels for zero-emission passenger transport,” Trout tells MIN. “This technology is the most efficient way to move on the water at speed, and we are excited to play our part to support the US marine sector in the manufacture and operationalisation of it.”

Vessev CEO Eric Laakmann adds: “As an American, nothing would make me prouder than bringing the New Zealand innovation to the States. There’s no shortage of possibilities in the land of opportunity, and this step is an important step forward for us at Vessev.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Josh to the Vessev team,” says John Scott, chairman of Vessev. “What we like about Josh is that his vision and ambition match Vessev’s. His extensive experience in sales, operations and customer engagement, combined with his passion for marine innovation, makes him the ideal leader to drive Vessev’s growth in the US market.”

Trout (pictured left) adds: “I’ve worked at the bleeding edge of marine technology for over 20 years, and the innovation and forethought of Vessev’s unique hydrofoiling technology is unparalleled. I have complete confidence that I can support the company’s US growth strategy with both sales and extending our reach in international markets.

“We are also exploring the opportunities to build our state-of-the-art vessels in the US, which will both create jobs and set the foundations for our service and support business in the US.”

In a statement, Vessev says it plans to develop its US operations to support commercial operators and private customers seeking sustainable marine transport solutions.