They call it the Tesla of the ocean. Candela Speed Boat AB has developed the world’s first hydrofoil electric production boat and aims to make the ocean fossil-free.
Since 2015, the Candela team has been working with experts from the public sector and research to develop the technology used in the Candela Speed Boats. At the end of 2016, the prototype was launched, and in the spring of 2019, the first customer deliveries were completed.
How it works
Since water is thicker than air, a lot of energy is needed to overcome the friction created when a boat hull moves through the water. Candela founder Gustav Hasselskog had an idea that would help solve this problem. By making the boats “fly” about 60 cm over the surface by supplying them with special wings called foils, the friction is reduced, making the boat ride smooth, quiet and energy-efficient.
A smooth and energy-efficient ride
Candela seven is the first electric boat that matches fossil-fuelled vessels in terms of speed and range. Furthermore, it is 95 % cheaper to run than fossil fuel vessels of the same size. The electricity cost for a 2,5-hour ride in 20 knots is only 3 euros and the energy used is reduced by 75 % compared to planing boats.
By using the experiences from fighter jets and aeroplane design, Candela has created a light, yet impact-resistant boat made entirely out of carbon fibre. Thanks to the foils, the boat does not slam against the surface, leading to a smoother ride.
Flying boats – the future for public transport?
Candela is currently scaling their electric, foiling technology to bigger, commercial ships, such as passenger ferries. Electric foiling transportation will be a revolution in costs, emission-reduction and comfort for passengers.
Current fast ferries can only run fast on open water, since they create wakes that cause erosion to shorelines, disturb marine wildlife and other traffic. Candela’s foiling technology enables, emission-free, fast public transportation on urban waterways and no-wake zones. Add to that a cost reduction of 30 % compared to current ships, due to the energy efficiency of foils and an electric drive train. Electric ferries would also help lower the emissions in cities caused by passenger ferries in city rivers, leading to better air quality and better life quality for residents.
Contact Candela Speed Boat here.
