26
FOGHORN
COMPARING PROPULSION TECHNOLOGIES AGAINST ROUTES
When diesel, electric displacement and electric hydrofoil vessels are compared side by side, distinct patterns emerge:
The efficiency gains of hydrofoils are central to their broader 
economic impact. By lifting the hull clear of the water’s sur-
face, they minimize resistance and energy demand, reshaping 
everything from battery sizing to shore power requirements. 
It is within this emerging class that vessels, such as the Arte-
mis EF-24 Passenger, illustrate how efficiency and high-speed 
operation can be combined without the traditional draw-
backs of heavy battery installations or long charging cycles.
FOGHORN FOCUS
DIESEL
ELECTRIC 
DISPLACEMENT
ELECTRIC 
HYDROFOILING
CAPEX
Lowest CAPEX
Higher up-front cost
Highest CAPEX
OPEX
Highest fuel +  
maintenance costs
Potentially lower fuel costs, 
maintenance costs dependent 
on battery system
Highest efficiency, lowest 
maintenance costs
CHARGING / REFUELING REQUIREMENTS
Well understood  
infrastructure demands
Up to two times charging  
power vs. electric hydrofoiling. 
Energy use limits benefit  
of shore-side buffer solutions
Smallest shoreside charging 
infrastructure. Opportunity  
to reduce OPEX with shore-side 
buffer solutions
OPERATIONAL PROFILE
Long-range routes with  
volumes less than 450 pax
Short-range, slower speed 
transit with established  
grid network
Well suited to commuter  
routes and constrained  
electrical environments
OUTLOOK
Reduced long term economic 
competitiveness under 
tightening emissions rules
Slower speeds reduce 
competitiveness with  
alternative transport
Strong long-term economic 
competitiveness driven by 
superior energy efficiency,  
lower operating costs,  
and alignment with tightening 
emissions regulations

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