Blockchains / Velas
VLX

Velas

VLX

AI-enhanced hybrid blockchain combining EVM and Solana-based architecture

Layer 1 hybridaihigh-performance
Launched
2019
Founder
Alex Alexandrov
Website
velas.com
Primitives
3

Introduction to Velas

Velas positions itself as an “AI-powered” blockchain, claiming to use artificial neural networks for various network optimizations. The platform combines EVM compatibility with a Solana-based consensus layer, attempting to offer both Ethereum developer familiarity and Solana-level performance.

The hybrid approach—connecting an EVM chain to a high-performance consensus layer—theoretically provides the best of both worlds. Whether the “AI” components provide meaningful benefits beyond marketing remains a subject of debate in the technical community.

How Velas Works

Hybrid Architecture

Dual-layer design:

  • EVM layer for smart contracts
  • Solana-based consensus
  • Bridge between layers
  • Combined benefits

AIDPOS Consensus

AI claims:

  • “AI-Delegated Proof of Stake”
  • Neural network optimization
  • Automated tuning
  • Performance enhancement

EVM Compatibility

Developer experience:

  • Solidity deployment
  • Ethereum tools work
  • MetaMask integration
  • Familiar development

Technical Specifications

MetricValue
ConsensusAIDPOS
TPSClaims 75,000+
Block Time0.4 seconds
EVMCompatible
ArchitectureHybrid

The VLX Token

Utility

VLX serves multiple purposes:

  • Gas Fees: Transaction costs
  • Staking: Network security
  • Governance: Protocol decisions
  • Ecosystem: Application use

Tokenomics

Supply model:

  • Fixed maximum supply
  • Staking rewards
  • Inflationary distribution
  • Ecosystem incentives

Staking

Participation:

  • Delegated staking
  • Validator selection
  • Reward distribution
  • Network participation

AI Claims Analysis

What’s Claimed

Marketing statements:

  • AI-optimized consensus
  • Neural network tuning
  • Automated improvements
  • Intelligent operation

Technical Reality

Honest assessment:

  • Limited public documentation
  • AI components unclear
  • Marketing-heavy language
  • Skepticism warranted

Industry Context

Common pattern:

  • “AI” as buzzword
  • Actual AI use varies
  • Verification difficult
  • Due diligence needed

Ecosystem

Applications

Platform usage:

  • DeFi protocols
  • NFT platforms
  • Gaming projects
  • Various dApps

Developer Adoption

Builder activity:

  • EVM familiarity helps
  • Some projects deployed
  • Smaller ecosystem
  • Growth challenges

Hybrid Benefits

Theoretical Advantages

Combined approach:

  • EVM accessibility
  • High throughput
  • Developer familiarity
  • Performance benefits

Practical Considerations

Reality:

  • Complexity added
  • Bridge requirements
  • Integration challenges
  • Trade-offs exist

Competition and Positioning

vs. Other High-Performance

ChainArchitectureTPS Claims
VelasHybrid75,000
SolanaNative65,000
AvalancheSubnets4,500

Differentiation Challenges

Market position:

  • Many fast chains
  • EVM options abundant
  • Differentiation difficult
  • Network effects matter

Challenges and Criticism

AI Skepticism

Verification issues:

  • Claims hard to verify
  • Limited technical papers
  • Marketing emphasis
  • Trust requirements

Competition

Market dynamics:

  • Many alternatives
  • Established competitors
  • Network effects elsewhere
  • Attention fragmented

Visibility

Recognition challenges:

  • Lower profile
  • Marketing vs. adoption
  • Discovery difficulty
  • Ecosystem size

Product Suite

Velas Account

Identity features:

  • Multi-chain account
  • Security features
  • User management
  • Ecosystem integration

Wallet Solutions

Infrastructure:

  • Mobile wallet
  • Browser extension
  • Multi-asset support
  • User experience

Recent Developments

Network Updates

Platform progress:

  • Feature additions
  • Performance improvements
  • Ecosystem development
  • Partnership announcements

Ecosystem Growth

Development:

  • New applications
  • Integration updates
  • Community building
  • Market presence

Future Roadmap

Development priorities:

  • Performance: Further optimization
  • Ecosystem: Application growth
  • Developer Tools: Better experience
  • Adoption: User acquisition
  • Integration: Cross-chain connectivity

Conclusion

Velas attempts to combine EVM familiarity with high performance through a hybrid architecture. The “AI” positioning differentiates marketing-wise, though technical verification of these claims proves difficult.

The blockchain space has many high-performance EVM options, making differentiation challenging regardless of technical merits. Without strong network effects, developer mindshare, or unique capabilities, competing for ecosystem attention remains difficult.

For developers seeking alternative EVM deployment targets, Velas provides another option—though due diligence on AI claims and careful ecosystem evaluation is advisable before significant commitment.