One of the world's biggest electric boat builders is entering new territory,
Sweden's Candela Boats has remained at the forefront of both the electric boating movement, as well as the resurgence of the hydrofoil, since forming in 2014.
Over that time, the Stockholm based company has enjoyed a rapid ascension and expanded beyond their original C7 Prototype to include the larger P-8 Passenger design and a foray into the center console market with the all-new C-8 platform.
Every Candela model is 100% electric and uses their unique hydrofoil design to provide one of the quietest, and smoothest, rides available in recreational boating. They also offer a minimalist aesthetic that allows for unique layouts, creative floorplans, and simplicity for users.
With 2024 on the horizon, the company is now expanding beyond their traditional dayboats by launching the all-new P-12, a passenger 'ferry' designed for larger groups and both recreational or commercial usage. The new model is now in production at their Rotebro, Sweden facility.
According to the company, the new P-12 will halve travel times and boost operator profits in commercial settings when compared to diesel counterparts.
Candela founder Gustav Hasselkog said in a statement that since successful sea trials, the company is "jumpstarting production to keep up with demand."
”The P-12 is a platform that will cater to a vast range of clients. Whether it’s public transport, VIP services, or private customers, it will revolutionize how we travel over water," he added.
The first flight of the P-12 pre-production vessel, nicknamed Zero, hit a take-off speed of 16 knots (18 mph) and quickly reached its designed top speed of 30 knots (34 mph) within 16 seconds. The test flight was guided by Hasselskog himself.
The performance figures mark a new record for electric passenger vessels. The P-12 is also expected to carry a range of 40-50 nautical miles (75-90 km).
Design-wise, the P-12 uses Candela's unique carbon fiber wing template beneath the hull to reduce energy consumption by up to 80% compared to non-hydrofoiling vessels. Once airborne, P-12’s digital Flight Control System adjusts the foils’ angles based on various sensors, ensuring a smoother ride without the discomforts of sea-sickness or the steady impact of waves against the hull.
The P-12 will be available in three configurations: the P-12 Shuttle, the P-12 Business, and the P-12 Voyager. The Shuttle configuration seats 30 passengers and offers a new benchmark for sustainable commuting. Allocated space for bicycles (along with strollers and wheelchairs) will also encourage urban planners to mix electric boat services with cycling and other forms of public transport.
The Business version will feature a premium interior with seating for 12 to 20 passengers. The highly adaptable Voyager version will offer customers flexibility in interior design, catering to both private leisure and commercial clients.
“Today, in many cities, roads are congested while the waterways – mankind’s oldest infrastructure – is unused for fast commuting. The P-12 offers a path to use these waterways as green highways, offering fast intra city connections. The quickest way is often over water," added Hasselskog.
You can see the P-12 in action in the video below:
