Sarah Travers
Swedish technology firm Candela Technology AB has taken the maritime industry by storm with the introduction of the Candela P-12, the world’s first electric hydrofoiling passenger vessel. What makes this development even more remarkable is that the company is already gearing up for mass production, just months after unveiling the concept in June 2022.
This extraordinary feat is the result of Candela Technology’s tireless efforts to revolutionize boating by creating an electric-powered vessel that not only prioritizes sustainability but also surpasses traditional fossil-fuel boats in terms of performance while remaining cost-effective.
Much like its predecessors, the P-12 employs computer-controlled hydrofoils to raise the hull above the water surface, significantly reducing drag – a major challenge in the adoption of high-speed electric vessels. This ingenious innovation addresses the key obstacles faced by electric boats: limited range and slow speeds due to the substantial energy consumption of conventional hulls.
Once the vessel is airborne, the Candela P-12’s digital flight control system takes over, making rapid adjustments to the hydrofoils at an astonishing rate of 100 times per second. The result? A top speed of 30 knots, setting a new record for electric passenger vessels, and an impressive range of up to 50 nautical miles. This range represents a significant breakthrough as the first electric ship with the practical endurance required for coastal transport.
Erik Eklund, Director for Commercial Vessels at Candela, emphasizes the significance of this accomplishment, noting that the P-12 offers more than just a faster and more comfortable electric alternative to fossil fuel-powered vessels. It empowers operators to transition to sustainable vessels that are not only environmentally friendly but also economically viable, marking a crucial step towards cleaner oceans and lakes.
The economic advantages are substantial, with operators expected to cut their “fuel” costs by up to 90% compared to diesel vessels. Furthermore, the C-POD motors require minimal maintenance, further enhancing cost savings. Additionally, the vessel’s design is optimized for single-crew operation, reducing operational expenses.
The Candela P-12 is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is available in three distinct versions to cater to a wide range of passenger and business needs. The Shuttle configuration can accommodate 30 passengers and stands out as an eco-friendly commuting option with the lowest operational costs in the industry. Its design even includes space for bicycles, promoting the integration of cycling with public transportation.
The Business version offers a premium interior with seating for 12 to 20 passengers, along with ample luggage space. Meanwhile, the Voyager version is highly adaptable, allowing for customized interior designs to meet the preferences of both private leisure and commercial clients.
Gustav Hasselskog, the founder of Candela Technology, envisions the P-12 as a versatile platform that will revolutionize water travel for various clients, including public transport fleets, VIP services, and private customers. The innovation promises to transform how we navigate waterways while advancing the cause of clean and sustainable maritime transport.
In a world increasingly focused on environmental sustainability, the Candela P-12 emerges as a pioneering solution that not only meets the demands of modern travel but also underscores the immense potential of electric-powered vessels to lead the way toward a cleaner and more efficient maritime future. Candela Technology’s unwavering commitment to excellence and sustainability has undoubtedly established a new standard in the realm of passenger vessels.
