NEOM, the environmentally friendly city in Saudi Arabia, has made a groundbreaking move by ordering 8 Candela P-12s, the world’s first electric hydrofoil ships, to enhance its water transport network. This order marks the largest ever for Candela Technology AB, a leading tech firm based in Stockholm.
Innovative and Sustainable Water Transport
Candela P-12: A Game Changer in Maritime Technology
The Candela P-12s are a revolutionary leap forward in maritime technology. Utilizing 80% less energy compared to traditional ships, these vessels glide through the air on hydrofoils controlled by advanced computer systems. With a speed of 25 knots and a nearly two-hour range, the P-12s set a new standard for electric ships by combining long-range capabilities with high speed.
Cost-Effective and Eco-Friendly
These hydrofoils are designed to reduce operational costs by up to 50%, making them not only eco-friendly but also economically viable. Candela Technology AB, founded in 2014, is set to deliver the first eight vessels between 2025 and early 2026.
Advantages of Electric Hydrofoils
Zero Emissions and High Efficiency
The Candela P-12 is engineered to create zero-emission water transport systems that offer significant advantages over conventional ferries. According to Gustav Hasselskog, CEO and founder of Candela, "Travelers can enjoy considerably more frequent departures and faster journeys on the Candela P-12 compared to the larger, slower, and less energy-efficient conventional ferries used by legacy systems."
Revolutionary Hydrofoil Technology
First introduced in 2023, the Candela P-12 will make its public transportation debut in Stockholm in the fall of 2024. The vessel's flight controller, the core of its hydrofoil technology, automatically stabilizes the vessel based on real-time data from sensors measuring wave height and wind speed. This ensures a smooth and stable ride, with passengers experiencing 90% fewer g-forces compared to traditional boats, even in rough weather.
Environmental and Operational Impact
Minimizing Environmental Impact
During its lifetime, a single Candela P-12 is expected to emit 97.5% less CO₂ compared to a diesel vessel of similar size, according to a life cycle analysis by KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm. Additionally, the vessel's underwater electric motors, Candela C-PODs, operate almost silently, causing minimal disruption to marine life and producing almost no wake.
Transforming Water Travel
"We take great pride in offering a ship system that considers the needs of both passengers and the environment," says Hasselskog. "The Candela P-12 will revolutionize water travel with shorter wait times, faster connections, and a more pleasant experience, all without harming the environment through wakes, emissions, or noise."
Candela's Journey in Electric Maritime Innovation
Candela's journey began in 2019 with the launch of the Candela C-7, the world’s first electric hydrofoil recreational boat, following five years of research and development. This was followed by the Candela C-8 in 2022, which quickly became popular in the high-volume market. By spring 2023, more than 150 units of the C-8 had been sold, solidifying Candela's position as a leader in sustainable maritime technology.
