ZESST designs and builds zero‑emission hydrofoil vessels powered by electric batteries or hydrogen fuel cells for private and public water transport. By lifting the hull above the water, their boats achieve up to 85% lower energy use, silent operation, and no CO₂, NOx, or particulate emissions, offering a low‑maintenance, cost‑effective alternative to conventional ships.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
ZESST addresses the high emissions, noise, and fuel costs associated with conventional diesel-powered boats used for private leisure and public water transport. Traditional vessels also generate significant wake and vibration, leading to environmental impact and passenger discomfort.
Solution
ZESST designs and builds zero‑emission hydrofoil vessels that lift the hull above the water, dramatically reducing hydrodynamic drag and enabling efficient electric or hydrogen fuel‑cell propulsion. The hydrofoil architecture delivers up to 85 % lower energy consumption while providing silent, smooth operation with no wake, eliminating CO₂, NOx, and particulate emissions. Two product platforms are offered: a 7‑passenger private yacht (Precursor) and a modular 100‑150‑passenger ferry (PAX) for short‑range lake, river, and coastal routes. Both platforms can be powered by batteries for short urban trips or by green hydrogen for longer routes, delivering cruise speeds of around 50 km/h. By lowering fuel use and maintenance requirements, ZESST reduces total cost of ownership compared with diesel vessels.
Target Audience
Primary customers are private boat owners seeking high‑performance, low‑impact yachts and maritime operators (e.g., commuter services, island shuttles, tourist ferries) looking to replace diesel ferries with clean, cost‑effective hydrofoil vessels.
Features
- Hydrofoil hull lifts the vessel above water, cutting drag by up to 85 % and reducing energy demand
- Full electric or green‑hydrogen fuel‑cell propulsion options, both zero‑emission in operation
- Silent, wake‑free ride that minimizes noise, vibration and seasickness
- Private yacht (Precursor) accommodates up to 7 passengers with a premium, jet‑style interior
- Modular ferry (PAX) configurable for 100‑150 passengers, with interchangeable seating or lounge layouts
- Cruise speeds up to 46 km/h (25 knots) and top speeds of 55 km/h (30 knots)
- Range of up to 140 km on hydrogen for the private vessel and 100 km for the ferry
- Aerospace‑derived engineering and integrated naval architecture for high reliability and low maintenance