Electric Water Taxi Demonstrates Potomac Potential

The 10-passenger hydrofoil could change Washington commuting if the manufacturer meets domestic build requirements.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Electric Vehicles

Isometric editorial illustration of a sleek electric hydrofoil craft elevated on water struts, representing modern efficient river transport. — Vessev demonstrated its 10-passenger electric hydrofoil taxi on the Potomac River in October, showcasing potential improvements for Washington's waterborne commuting efficiency. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Vessev demonstrated its electric hydrofoil water taxi on the Potomac River in early October 2026. The 10-passenger VS-9 vessel offers a potential new option for waterborne commuting in Washington.

Why it matters

The demonstration highlighted how electric hydrofoil technology could improve local water travel efficiency and reduce transit times. Vessev is also working to overcome infrastructure hurdles by developing dedicated battery-charging units for marinas.

The VS-9 carries up to 10 passengers with a 25-knot cruising speed. It recharges in one hour using a fast DC charger or 20 hours via standard shore power.

The players

Vessev

A developer of battery-powered hydrofoil vessels aiming to modernize marine transportation.

Eric Laakmann

The CEO of Vessev and a former Apple employee leading the company.

FlyTahoe

The first U.S. customer to announce the purchase of the VS-9 hydrofoil vessel.

The details

The vessel uses retractable hydrofoil struts that lift the hull out of the water to minimize drag while in transit. After departing the marina, the struts lower to elevate the craft, enabling higher speeds and energy efficiency. To address limited charging infrastructure, Vessev is developing marina-based battery units to facilitate vessel refueling.

1920: The Jones Act was enacted, requiring passenger vessels between U.S. points to be U.S.-built.
August 2026: FlyTahoe was announced as the first U.S. customer for the VS-9.
Early October 2026: Vessev performed the demonstration on the Potomac River.

The Home Front

This development follows the 1920 Jones Act, which dictates that commercial vessels transporting passengers between U.S. points must be built domestically. Manufacturers like Vessev must now reconcile their production models with this federal requirement to enter the U.S. market.

Residents should keep an eye on future developments regarding local ferry service and water taxi options that may emerge from these trials. Prospective commuters can monitor updates on service availability as the manufacturer works to meet federal domestic manufacturing standards.

The takeaway

The VS-9 demonstrates how hydrofoil technology can offer efficient alternatives to traditional transit in cities with high water access. Residents may see this technology evolve as the manufacturer seeks a domestic facility to satisfy U.S. regulatory standards.