Israel: Hydrofoils More Accessible Thanks to Cutting-Edge Technology

The hydrofoil could become the future of maritime mobility, but it is still underused by the majority of us. The founders of the Israeli startup Level Hydrofoils (2017), Arthur Yanai and Assaf Friedman, passionate about water sports, came up with the idea of making electric hydrofoils more accessible by combining advanced technology with innovative design. Led by a team of professionals, and relying on revolutionary technology, Level Hydrofoils is ready to revolutionize the entire maritime mobility market. Its flagship technology is based on a gyroscopic stabilization system that adjusts the board's balance in real-time, simplifying learning and enhancing the user experience. The system operates at a frequency of 100 Hz, allowing for fast and precise adjustments.

Hydrofoils supported by a single strut are the most efficient but also the most unstable. The flight must be limited to a narrow operational corridor, and to complicate matters further, hydrofoils must face significant disturbances caused by a non-rigid payload: humans. The exclusive gyrostabilization technology allows users to glide effortlessly and safely above the water, with a very short learning curve. Hydrofoils are therefore particularly suited for sea excursions.

The technique is simple: the computer collects high-speed data measured by the sensors and makes ultra-fast decisions. The data is then transmitted precisely to the underwater rudders and transmission, ensuring perfectly balanced flight. Additionally, aerospace-grade sensors are uniquely integrated into the board's flight computer, detecting the slightest deviations from stabilized flight at over 400 Hz, much faster than a human could respond.

Three distinct systems onboard constantly monitor the rider's presence during flight. If one of these systems detects a fall, the board immediately performs a controlled landing. This system has been perfected for maximum safety and minimal false stops.

Based in Haifa, the company benefits from the support of the Israeli Innovation Authority and the National Center for Blue Economy and Innovation. Level Hydrofoils positions itself as a key player in the field of sustainable maritime mobility by making hydrofoils more stable and environmentally friendly. Level's mission is to accelerate this revolution by making hydrofoils more accessible to the general public, thus contributing to the faster adoption of cleaner, electric, and high-performance watercraft.

Caroline Haïat