Navier's electric hydrofoils to launch zero-carbon ferry network in Maldives

Navier, a Bay Area-based company, has signed a $100m deal with JIH Global Investment to deploy up to 100 all-electric carbon-fibre hydrofoils in the Maldives by the end of the decade. The first 30 N30 vessels will begin service within months, targeting luxury hotels. Founder Sampriti Bhattacharyya, formerly of NASA and MIT, says the hydrofoils' quiet, zero-emission electric motors align with the Maldives' net-zero goal. The N30 has a 75-nautical-mile range and a lightweight hull. Navier plans a 40ft version, a 120ft model, and a hybrid variant. The company is also planning networks in Cambodia and Austin, Texas, and counts the US Navy as a customer. Eventually, the service will be available to the public via an app, competing with traditional ferries. The Maldives currently has 3,000 gas-powered vessels and hosted 2.2 million tourists last year.