Vessev is a pioneering marine technology company based in Auckland, New Zealand, focused on revolutionizing water transport with sustainable, high-performance solutions. Founded in 2018 by Max Olson as Seachange, and later rebranded to Vessev, the company is driven by a mission to "propel a more liveable world" through innovative electric hydrofoiling vessels. These boats lift above the waves using advanced hydrofoil technology—adapted from New Zealand’s America’s Cup legacy—reducing energy consumption by up to 95% compared to traditional boats. This efficiency translates to lower operational costs, cleaner air and water, and a smoother, quieter ride for passengers.
   Led by CEO Eric Laakmann, a former Apple Watch engineering lead, and CTO Max Olson, Vessev combines expertise in marine engineering, vehicle electrification, and robotics. Their flagship product, the VS-9, is a 9-meter (29.3-foot) electric hydrofoiling ferry that seats 10 passengers and cruises at 25 knots with a 50-nautical-mile range. In a world-first milestone, the VS-9, named Kermadec, entered commercial service on January 29, 2025, with Fullers360, New Zealand’s largest ferry operator, offering tourism trips across Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour. Certified by Maritime New Zealand, it’s the first commercially operated electric hydrofoiling tourism vessel globally, marking a leap in sustainable marine transport.
    Vessev’s ethos—“engineered for safety, built to last, and impact through performance”—shines through in the VS-9’s design. Its carbon-fiber build, panoramic windows, and ergonomic interior prioritize comfort and durability, while its ability to “fly” over waves ensures stability in rough conditions. Priced at around US$620,000, it’s a premium investment, but the long-term savings and environmental benefits appeal to operators like Fullers360, which aims to be fully electric or hydrogen-powered by 2040.
    The company isn’t stopping at the VS-9. They’re developing the VS-18, a 100-passenger version, signaling ambitions to scale their tech for broader commuter and commercial use. Backed by investors like Icehouse Ventures and Blackbird Ventures, Vessev has raised NZ$3.6 million to date, with plans for further funding to fuel expansion. Rooted in New Zealand’s rich maritime innovation history, Vessev is positioning itself as a global leader—think the “Tesla of boats”—aiming to transform how we move on water, one hydrofoil at a time.

The BYD BD11, launched by Chinese manufacturer BYD in May 2024 at the London Bus Museum, represents a significant step forward in the evolution of electric buses tailored for the UK market, particularly London. Touted as a potential successor to the iconic Routemaster (often called the "Boris Bus"), the BD11 aims to blend cutting-edge technology with practical design to meet the demands of modern urban transportation. Having entered service with Transport for London (TfL) in December 2024, this bus is now a real-world contender in the push toward an all-electric bus fleet by 2030. Here’s an in-depth look at its features, performance, and overall impression.
Design and Build
The BD11 is a 10.9-meter-long double-decker with a sleek, utilitarian exterior that prioritizes function over flair. While some have described its outward appearance as "uninspiring," the bus shines on the inside. The interior is spacious and modern, accommodating up to 90 passengers (though some sources claim a capacity of 120 seats, likely including standing room). The integration of BYD’s Blade Battery into the chassis frees up interior space by 50% compared to traditional battery packs, resulting in a roomier cabin with enhanced headroom on the upper deck and wheelchair accessibility below. Features like mood lighting, USB charging ports, and opening windows (a welcome improvement over the Routemaster’s sometimes stifling air conditioning) elevate the passenger experience to a level some have called "absolute luxury" compared to other buses.
However, early feedback suggests that build quality might be a weak point. Reports from users on X highlight inconsistent construction, with visible panel gaps and rattles raising concerns about long-term durability. While it’s too soon to judge definitively, this could be a hurdle for BYD as it competes with established UK manufacturers like Alexander Dennis.