The Candela P-12 electric hydrofoil is redefining water travel. Its hull is lifted one metre above the water by hydrofoils, producing almost no noise at a cruising speed of 25 knots (46 km/h), giving the impression the boat is gliding above the waves.
Candela P-12 Electric Hydrofoil in Stockholm
In Stockholm, this innovative vessel has served commuters since last year, transporting passengers from Ekerö, the fastest-growing island suburb of Stockholm on Lake Mälaren, to the city centre 15 kilometres east. Candela recently announced plans for the Candela P-12 electric hydrofoil to operate in Stockholm’s archipelago, a sprawling chain of islands extending east from the city centre to the open Baltic Sea.
Trials in Trondheim Under Frostabåten Project
This model could also transform travel in the Trondheim region. Under the Frostabåten project—a collaboration between property developers, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), and regional authorities—the Candela P-12 electric hydrofoil will run trials between Frosta Brygge and Trondheim from mid-December to late January.
The Frostabåten project temporarily revives a ferry service discontinued in 1970 after briefly operating with a diesel PT-20 hydrofoil. While that vessel offered fast travel, it was costly to maintain. The Candela P-12 builds on this legacy with high speed, long range, and efficiency, addressing modern commuter challenges across Norway.
Efficiency and Impact on Daily Commutes
Norway’s fjords carve deep into the landscape, making direct water crossings the shortest route. Frosta, for instance, is a newly developed coastal community with sweeping fjord views. Traveling by car or bus to Trondheim takes around 90 minutes. With the Candela P-12 electric hydrofoil, the journey is just 30 minutes, saving commuters roughly two hours daily.
“We’re bringing flying boats back to Trondheim, but this time they are electric, whisper quiet, and highly efficient,” said Alexander Sifvert, Head of Candela’s European operations. Conventional electric fast ferries struggle on high-speed routes due to energy consumption and expensive charging needs. The Candela P-12 overcomes these limits with a cost-effective, mobile DC fast charger similar to those used for electric cars, making high-speed electric ferrying viable for Norway’s fjords.
Future Prospects
The Candela P-12 electric hydrofoil could be a blueprint for future commuter solutions in other regions, combining speed, range, and environmental benefits to replace traditional diesel ferries.
