On December 6, 2023, Swedish electric boat company Candela announced the successful completion of test trips of the Candela P-12, the world's first electric hydrofoil passenger boat. The trips, carried out in the Stockholm archipelago, demonstrated that the P-12 is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 30 knots (55 km/h) and maintaining a cruising speed of 25 knots (46 km/h) with fuel consumption energy of only 30 kWh/h.
The Candela P-12 has a length of 12 meters and a beam of 4.5 meters. It is powered by two 360 kW electric motors, which are mounted on the bottom of the boat. The engines drive two hydrofoils, which raise the boat above the water to a height of about 50 centimeters. This configuration allows the P-12 to sail with much lower resistance than a traditional boat, giving it greater energy efficiency.
The hydro-wing technology used by the P-12 is not new. In fact, hydrofoils have been used for decades to transport passengers and cargo in coastal waters. However, the P-12 is the first electric hydrofoil passenger ship that is capable of commercial speeds.
The successful flight testing of the P-12 represents an important milestone in the development of electric shipping. The P-12 demonstrates that it is possible to build electric boats that are efficient, fast and comfortable.
The Candela P-12 has the potential to change maritime passenger transportation. The boat is much more efficient than traditional boats, making it more environmentally friendly. Additionally, the P-12 is quieter and smoother than traditional boats, making it more comfortable for passengers.
The Candela P-12 could be used for a variety of passenger shipping applications. It could be used to transport passengers between islands or between the mainland and the islands. It could also be used to transport passengers to coastal areas or marinas.
The P-12 could have a significant impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions from shipping. Shipping is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, and the P-12 could help reduce these emissions.
In the coming years, we are likely to see more hydrofoil electric boats on the market. These ships could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from shipping and improve the passenger experience.
A video can be viewed at: https://youtu.be/XSkjdfaHxhw
This is a very suitable method of transport for short trips by sea, in which the “boat” can recharge its batteries when arriving at its mooring place. Time will tell us how it evolves.
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