The Belfast-based company announced the design on 10 November. The EF-15 Escape builds on the 12-passenger Artemis EF-12 Escape and uses the company's own Artemis eFoiler electric propulsion system. The interior can be configured as a high-capacity transit layout for up to 50 passengers or as a lower-capacity executive layout, while a cargo version can carry up to 5.5 tonnes of goods, equipment and light freight.

Artemis quotes a cruise speed of 28 knots, a top speed of 34 knots and a foiling range of 45 nautical miles, with optional range extenders for longer routes. A full charge takes under 60 minutes. The company notes that these are maximum figures that depend on specification, load, sea state and temperature.

The vessel is designed to meet both US Coast Guard Subchapter T requirements and the International Code of Safety for High-Speed Craft (HSC Code). According to Artemis, lifting the hull out of the water reduces wake, which makes the vessel suitable for sensitive and busy urban waterways, while electric propulsion lowers energy consumption and maintenance compared with conventional diesel craft.

Dr Iain Percy OBE, CEO of Artemis Technologies, says the new design "is about making electric foiling relevant to many more operators and many more passengers". He adds that the larger capacity and the configurable layout open the platform to uses ranging from frequent urban commuter services to premium passenger and logistics work.

Artemis describes the EF-15 Escape as a move away from individual vessel products towards a family of configurable platforms built on a common base, allowing operators to run different versions within the same network.

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