Candela has closed its latest funding round at almost €25 million, with Group Beneteau coming in as a key partner.
The funding is the electric hydrofoil leisure boatbuilder’s largest ever funding round.
“We have taken a leading position as the key player when it comes to electric hydrofoil leisure boats,” explained Gustav Hasselskog, founder and CEO of Candela.
“I’m especially happy to announce that Beneteau Group, the largest producer of leisure boats in the world, is one of the investors in this round.
“Their investment is a proof that electric hydrofoiling boats is really the way forward in the boating industry.”
And he explained that the next step for Candela is to ramp up production of its P-12 ferry, moving into passenger transport.
The P-12 was launched late in 2023. The vessel has a designed top speed of 30 knots and is able to undertake long-range, high-speed journeys.
The P-12 has three carbon fibre wings beneath the hull to reduce energy consumption. Once airborne, the P-12’s digital flight control system adjusts the angles of the foils based on various sensors.
One key feature is an extendable automatic bow ramp that can adjust to different quay heights from 0.2m to 2m, allowing the ferry to travel different routes without needing dock modifications.
It is fitted with electric C-POD motors that skip transmission, reducing maintenance.
The vessel is designed for single-person operation and can hold up to 30 passengers. “The P-12 is a platform that will cater to a vast range of clients,” added Gustav. “Whether it’s public transport, VIP services, or private customers, it will revolutionise how we travel over water.”
