Swedish company Candela’s electric hydrofoil ferry design is to be adopted for a new zero-emission ferry for Lake Tahoe in the US.
The Candela P-12 is believed to be the fastest electric vessel with the longest range, and offers significantly lower operational costs than diesel-powered vessels.
This marks the introduction of electric hydrofoiling passenger ships in the US, a crucial step towards decarbonizing maritime transport on American waterways.Local company FlyTahoe and Candela are cooperating on the ‘flying electric ferry’, the Candela P-12, the first of which recently launched on Stockholm’s waterways.
The 30-passenger P-12 is equipped with wings whch lift the hull above the water, significantly reducing drag and cutting energy consumption by an estimated 80% compared to conventional vessels. The P-12 can be propelled entirely by renewable electricity, while providing a smooth ride even at high speeds. Ride comfort is enhanced by a control system which uses sensors and software to balance the craft, constantly adjusting the foil’s angle of attack.
Gustav Hasselskog, CEO and Founder, Candela, said: “It basically works like a jet fighter, which is constantly balanced using ailerons. The principle of the P-12 is the same, except our wings fly in water instead of air.”
The P-12’s cruising speed of 25 knots will connect the northern and southern parts of the lake in under 30 minutes.
Ryan Meinzer, Founder and CEO, FlyTahoe, said: “It’s ironic that while millions, myself included, drive around Lake Tahoe to admire its beauty, the road sediment we generate contributes to the largest threat to the lake’s famous cobalt blue clarity. Our service will provide a faster transport than cars or buses, while keeping Tahoe blue.”
A detailed analysis by the Tahoe Transportation District recognised ferries as the best solution to reduce traffic congestion along Lake Tahoe’s north-south route, citing lower costs per user and faster travel times than road transport. However, that analysis, conducted before the advent of the P-12 technology, did not account for the electric ferry’s ability to reduce energy usage by 80% compared to traditional ferries.
Meinzer said: “This fusion of flight and electric technologies not only unveils a powerful new business opportunity with nearly 10x operational efficiency but also offers an unmatched customer experience of comfort and safety. Plus, we’ll not just be moving people faster; we’ll be boosting socio-economic mobility by connecting the north and south of the lake.”
Hasselskog concluded: “We’re proud to partner with FlyTahoe to bring this revolutionary technology to the US for the very first time. This will not only ensure more efficient commuting around Lake Tahoe and unlock business possibilities for waterfront communities, but it’s also a big step toward unlocking the potential of US waterways for zero-emission transport.”
Image: Candela P12 electric hydrofoil for Lake Tahoe (source: Candela)
