Regent Craft is to benefit from a strategic investment from MOL Switch, a US-based corporate venture capital firm that is part of Japanese shipping company Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL). The investment will support Regent bringing seagliders to market in Japan and in coastal destinations around the globe.

Regent seagliders provide efficient, sustainable options to augment coastal transportation ecosystems. The hydrofoiling wing-in-ground-effect vessel leverages existing dock infrastructure to carry people and goods over water up to 180 miles between coastal destinations, all with zero emissions.

“This strategic partnership marks a significant step forward for seaglider market adoption in Japan. Having MOL as a maritime champion for seaglider technology underlines Regent's market-leading traction in the country and paves the way to bring our high-speed, all-electric transportation solutions to coastal communities,” comments Billy Thalheimer, Regent co-founder and CEO.

Regent is the first to unlock the commercial viability of ground-effect vehicles, combining the speed of an aircraft with the convenience of a boat.

“Regent's pioneering technology and commitment to sustainability align with MOL's core mission to apply innovative technology and services to advance environmental conservation. The partnership reflects our shared commitment to ensuring safe transportation and building a sustainable future,” states Tomoaki Ichida, CEO, MOL Switch.

MOL Switch's strategic investment in Regent is part of growing interest in seaglider technology in Japan. HIS Group, one of Japan's largest travel agencies, Japan Airlines Innovation Fund, the venture arm of Japan Airlines (JAL), and Yamato Holdings, Japan's largest parcel delivery and logistics company, are also strategic investors.

About 80 per cent of Japan's population lives on or near coastal areas, and the maritime industry is critical to the country's economy. Seagliders provide affordable, convenient and sustainable options to transport people and goods in the country, augmenting existing transportation options and supporting lives and livelihoods.