Hullbot
Overview
Hullbot is a leading autonomous underwater robotics company that specializes in cleaning and inspecting ship hulls. Founded in 2015 by Tom Loefler and Karl Watfern, Hullbot is headquartered in Sydney, Australia. The company has recently raised $16 million in a Series A funding round to expand its operations globally. Hullbot's innovative technology focuses on proactive cleaning services that help reduce fuel consumption and emissions, aligning with global decarbonization goals.
Recent Developments
- November 2025: Hullbot raised $16 million in a Series A funding round to scale up its robotic manufacturing and expand international service hubs. This development underscores the rising global demand for Hullbot's innovative solutions.
- October 2025: Hullbot was awarded the Australian Good Design Award of the Year. This accolade highlights Hullbot's excellence in design and innovation, billing it alongside industry giants like Tesla and Hyundai.
- March 2025: In collaboration with the NRMA’s Manly Fast Ferry, Hullbot reported significant outcomes including a 13% reduction in fuel consumption and lower diesel pollution in Sydney Harbour.
- February 2024: Hullbot launched new service hubs and expanded its reach across the US, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, significantly increasing its market footprint.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2015 |
| Headquarters | Sydney, Australia |
| Founders | Tom Loefler, Karl Watfern |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Not publicly disclosed |
| Key Investors | NRMA Marine, Other private entities |
| Industry | Underwater Robotics |
| Number of Employees | 35 |
Early History
Hullbot's journey began in 2015 when Tom Loefler, an industrial design alumnus from UNSW, teamed up with Karl Watfern to create a solution to the persistent problem of biofouling on ship hulls. Initially developed as a student prototype, Hullbot’s technology evolved through several iterations guided by a multidisciplinary team of marine scientists, engineers, and designers. The company participated in the UNSW Founders D10X program in 2023, which was instrumental in helping the start-up scale its operations globally.
Company Profile and Achievements
Hullbot's core business model revolves around the design, development, and deployment of autonomous robots that tackle biofouling by frequently cleaning the hulls of marine vessels. The technology is environmentally sound and highly efficient, ensuring reduced drag, fuel consumption, and emissions. Notably, Hullbot has achieved:
- Innovation Awards: Winning the Australian Good Design Award of the Year in 2025.
- Global Deployment: Establishing service hubs in the US, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.
- Green Initiatives: Aligning with the International Maritime Organization's targets by enabling shipping companies to cut emissions.
Current Operations and Market Position
Hullbot is at the forefront of the underwater robotics industry, offering a unique and eco-friendly solution to ship maintenance. By combining robotics with precise engineering, Hullbot ensures minimal environmental disturbance while maximizing operational performance. It supports vessel operators by providing consistent, controlled cleaning services that prevent biofouling early, thus contributing to significant fuel and emission savings. Hullbot's advanced autonomy extends market-shares in major regions, further reinforcing its competitive edge.
Conclusion
Hullbot continues to pioneer in the field of underwater robotics with a strong focus on environmental sustainability and operational efficiency. As global shipping endeavors to meet stringent emission targets, Hullbot’s technology is positioned to play a pivotal role. With robust financial backing and a trailblazing track record of innovation, Hullbot is set to expand its influence, maintaining leadership in autonomous marine solutions.