Sweden’s Candela Technology has received an order for 20 of its P-12 electric hydrofoil vessels from Norwegian operator Boreal AS.
When delivered, the vessels, which will speed up commuting along Norway’s fjord-lined coast, will make up the world’s largest electric fleet to date.
As the company points out, Norway is the world’s most electrified car market, with around 99% of new car sales fully electric, however electrifying high-speed passenger vessels has remained challenging, as conventional e-ferries lack the range and speed to replace the diesel-powered fast ferries.
Our investment will enable new high-speed routes both in cities and in rural areas.
Nikolai Knudsmoen
The Candela P-12 ferry has a cruising speed of 25 knots with a range of around 40 nautical miles.
The P-12 uses computer-controlled hydrofoils that lift the vessel above the water at speeds above 18 knots.
The P-12 can fully recharge in an hour using standard DC car fast chargers.
“Candela P-12 is the only electric passenger vessel that combines longer range with high speed without requiring extensive charging infrastructure,” said Nikolai Knudsmoen Utheim, CEO at Boreal.
Maritime transport
“Our investment will enable new high-speed routes both in cities and in rural areas,”
“Norway has already led the electrification of maritime transport.
“With this fleet, Boreal wants to take the next step — accelerating zero-emission high-speed travel along the Norwegian coast and helping bring electric vessels to new markets beyond Norway.”
The first two P-12 vessels will be delivered in 2027 and are planned to enter service on one of several potential routes currently being explored in Norway and abroad. The remaining vessels will follow in yearly batches between 2028 and 2030.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Boreal, whose ambition and leadership are helping drive the electrification of maritime transport,” said Alexander Sifvert, Candela’s European director.
“This initiative shows how forward-thinking operators can accelerate the shift to zero-emission travel at sea, while reducing costs.”
