Swedish tech company Candela Technology AB has launched the world’s first electric hydrofoiling passenger vessel; The Candela P-12. Measuring 39 feet long with a beam of 14 feet, 7 inches, the P-12 can accommodate up to 30 passengers. After completing flight tests in Stockholm, the design entered serial production at Candela’s Rotebro factory in Sweden with the first production models becoming available in 2024.
The P-12 uses computer-guided hydrofoils to rise above the water. This technology greatly reduces friction, increases speed, lowers energy consumption and in rough seas creates more comfort for those aboard. According to Candela, the P-12 consumes 80 percent less energy than traditional passenger vessels of similar size when traveling at 18 knots or more.
The P-12’s 252-kWh battery provides a range of 50 nautical miles and its twin Candela C-POD MAX, 340-kWh engines give it a top speed of 30 knots. According to Candela, the vessel produces minimal wake, which helps prevent coastal erosion and reduces potential damage to moored vessels.
“With the P-12, we’re not just offering a faster, more comfortable electric alternative to fossil fuel-powered vessels,” said Erik Eklund, Candela’s Director for Commercial Vessels. “We enable operators to make the switch to sustainable vessels that are cost-effective and profitable, a crucial step towards clean oceans and lakes.”
The P-12 was designed for accessibility. An adjustable bow ramp can be raised and lowered to serve a range of dock heights and the P-12’s engines give it the ability to move sideways.
The new model will be available in three variants: The P-12 Shuttle, P-12 Business, and P-12 Voyager. The P-12 is priced at 1.86 million dollars but is expected to operate at far lower costs than comparable diesel-powered vessels. It is designed for single-crew operation and compared to carbon-powered vessels is expected to cut energy costs by 90 percent.
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