World's First Electric Hydrofoil Ferry Launches in Stockholm
Nova, the world's first electric hydrofoil ferry, reduces energy consumption by 80% compared to traditional vessels. Candela's innovative hydrofoil technology allows Nova to travel at high speeds with minimal wake, making it the fastest electric ferry in operation globally. The ferry operates on 100% renewable electricity, emitting minimal noise and offering a sustainable alternative to traditional water transport.
Departing from Tappström, Nova soared silently above the water's surface, completing a 15-km journey to Stockholm's City Hall in just over 30 minutes. Commuters on this innovative vessel experienced a significant reduction in their morning commute time, thanks to its cutting-edge technology.
Nova, the first of Candela's new P-12 models, features computer-controlled hydrofoil wings that lift the hull above water, leading to an impressive 80% reduction in energy consumption compared to traditional vessels by minimizing water friction. Gustav Hasselskog, Candela's founder and CEO, hailed this development as a "paradigm shift for urban transport and a revival of our waterways."
Traditional fast vessels face challenges due to their high energy consumption at high speeds, hindering electrification efforts. Candela's hydrofoil technology addresses these issues by allowing Nova to fly above the water, creating minimal wake and enabling high-speed travel within the city limits, surpassing the speed of diesel-powered ferries.
Stockholm's reliance on fossil fuels for its public transport vessels, despite representing a small portion of total ridership, highlights the need for more sustainable alternatives. Nova's use of 100% renewable electricity and minimal noise emission further solidify its position as a game-changer in maritime travel, offering a faster, greener, and more affordable option than land transport.
The innovative ferry will operate until the freezing of waters in 2024, with plans to resume service in spring through August 2025. This initiative, a collaboration between Candela, Trafikverket, and Region Stockholm, aims to explore the potential of hydrofoil technology in enabling faster, more cost-effective, and emissions-free maritime travel, paving the way for new transit patterns in Stockholm and beyond.
Candela's success has already attracted international attention, with orders from Saudi Arabia, New Zealand, and Germany in 2024, underscoring the global interest in sustainable maritime solutions. Mr. Hasselskog expressed his excitement, stating, "For the first time, there is a vessel that makes waterborne transport faster, greener and more affordable than land transport. It’s a renaissance for the world’s waterways, and it’s exciting that Stockholm is leading the way"
Nova, the world's first electric hydrofoil ferry, reduces energy consumption by 80% compared to traditional vessels.
Candela's innovative hydrofoil technology allows Nova to travel at high speeds with minimal wake, making it the fastest electric ferry in operation globally.
The ferry operates on 100% renewable electricity, emitting minimal noise and offering a sustainable alternative to traditional water transport.
Source: Riviera