Flying electric cars and boats are slowly becoming the new normal for travel. While flying car development is heating up, flying water taxis are already here and in service, at least in France. Yes, a commercial shuttle service in Paris already uses these five-seat electric flying taxis. Called “SeaBubbles,” the shuttle service is now available for public use.

First launched for testing in 2017, the electric hydrofoil takes on passengers at the Veyrier-du-Lac pier. From there, it takes passengers to Annecy les Marquisats. Service began this month and will continue through August. 

How do the SeaBubbles’ hydrofoils work?

SeaBubbles Mobility and the Agglomération du Grand Annecy are combining forces to expand the public transportation service to other parts of Paris and beyond. “Our eco-designed boats are the perfect setting for unique events and out-of-the-ordinary meetings, all while enjoying a breathtaking view of the water, with no noise and no pollution,” SeaBubbles says in a release. SeaBubbles launches eight round trips per day, from 9 AM to 7 PM. 

The SeaBubbles bodies mount on inverted T-shape foils. These foils are separated by flaps, with actuators adjusting height out of the water. Water volume displacement at the hull is drastically lower, which creates less wake, noise, and onboard energy consumption. 

How do the computer controls adjust height and speed?

They also adjust the vehicle’s roll, pitch, and yawing motions. The dynamic control system monitors flight data via onboard computers and sensors sprinkled throughout the hull. An inertial system also precisely regulates the flaps. Besides these advantages, the combined design and technology also eliminated sea sickness, too. 

The ride is like “a bubble floating over the water,” says SeaBubbles. This is surely accentuated by the smooth electric propulsion and no engine noise. The Seabubbles’ cruising speed is 13 knots. 

Together, it offers “zero waves, zero noise, and zero pollution emissions.” Passengers have scenic views through the large scissors-hinged windows and butterfly roof panels that can be flipped up. Combined, it provides almost unlimited views.

What else is SeaBubbles Mobility working on?

But SeaBubbles Mobility has its sights set on more flying taxi solutions. It is currently developing a larger 12-passenger water taxi it calls “SmartBubbles.” This larger craft will feature retractable hydrofoils. The SmartBubbles come with either electric or hydrogen propulsion systems. It is already undergoing testing, which SeaBubbles hopes will conclude in the coming months. 

Besides this new flying water taxi, Seabubbles continues to develop its electric battery systems. It is wrapping up a new charging system that it says can fully charge the vessel’s batteries in four minutes. 

In all, this is an environment-friendly passenger taxi offering an advanced and improved means of water travel. And this isn’t a startup project in development. It is already in commercial use to spotlight its amazing features.