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Luxury Boat Maker Is Betting on the $1.8M Candela Fast Electric Ferry

Groupe Beneteau is now an official stake-holder in the Swedish ferry maker Candela 7 photos
Photo: Candela
P-12 Fast Electric FerryP-12 Fast Electric FerryP-12 Fast Electric FerryP-12 Fast Electric FerryP-12 Fast Electric FerryP-12 Fast Electric Ferry
Hopefully, you haven't forgotten about the P-12 ferry – the Swedish-designed hydrofoil vessel is still determined to revolutionize maritime transport even though it's taking some time to get there. The good news is that Candela secured an important sum at the closing of its most recent funding round, which means that the commercial version of this game-changing concept is on track.
Just as eVTOLs (electric vertical takeoff and landing) are set to ease road traffic by offering an airborne green alternative, fully electric vessels (ferries in particular) could have a huge positive impact in some of the busiest urban areas in the world. Scandinavian countries are leaders in maritime transport innovation also because their governments are heavily invested in protecting their natural environments.

Swedish startup Candela has made waves over the years with several game-changing designs based on its unique technology and with multiple industry records. The P-12, its flagship electric hydrofoil ferry, was finally introduced in November last year, with plans to kick off series production. However, there's always a need for more funding to get things moving.

This month, Candela took a step forward after successfully finalizing its largest funding round so far. With approximately $25 million added to its existing funds, the Swedish startup can now ramp up production as initially planned. Apart from its traditional investors, it also got a helping hand from one of the most reputable European boat makers, Groupe Beneteau, owner of several luxury brands.

In its recently released 2023 report, the French Group announced it had acquired a stake in Candela as part of its wider B-sustainable program for reducing CO2 emissions. Again, this is something we're seeing across multiple industries, where established players are choosing to support innovative, green technologies and expand their own vision for the future.

The P-12 will be available in three configurations – a shuttle for public transport, a business version with a premium interior, and the Voyager version for bespoke, luxury transport for both private and commercial customers.

The P-12 shuttle is set to cost nearly $2 million (€1.7 million), making it a competitive alternative to diesel-powered ferries in the same size category. It will combine a 30-passenger capacity with a dedicated area onboard for bicycles, strollers, and wheelchairs. The commercial P-12 will transport folks in Stockholm from the Ekero island suburb to the city center, cutting the time it would typically take to get there by car or subway down to half.

This innovative electric ferry claims to offer exceptional speed, range, and maneuverability unlike anything else on the market. Its advanced hydrofoil technology is said to reduce energy consumption by up to 80% compared to conventional ferries. Plus, it's fully connected for easier and more effective maintenance.
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About the author: Otilia Drăgan
Otilia Drăgan profile photo

Otilia believes that if it’s eco, green, or groundbreaking, people should know about it (especially if it's got wheels or wings). Working in online media for over five years, she's gained a deeper perspective on how people everywhere can inspire each other.
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