Image Credit: Photo courtesy of Candela.
In a significant innovation for urban transportation, Stockholm has successfully piloted the Candela P-12 Shuttle, a hydrofoiling electric ferry that enhances efficiency and reduces emissions on its waterways. Launched in late 2024, the ferry operates between the suburb of Ekerö and central Stockholm, cutting travel times from 55 minutes to approximately 30 minutes.
The Swedish Transport Administration has reported that the pilot program has yielded impressive results. Passenger numbers increased by 22.5 percent, highlighting a strong demand for faster and more comfortable commuting options. Furthermore, the ferry has achieved a remarkable 94 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions compared to traditional diesel ferries, addressing a significant portion of public transport emissions in a city where diesel ferries account for nearly half of such emissions.
The Candela P-12 is notable for its advanced design, employing carbon fiber wings known as hydrofoils that lift the vessel above the water as it gains speed. This innovative technology decreases drag and enhances energy efficiency, allowing the ferry to operate at speeds of around 25 knots while producing minimal wake and noise. The vessel’s quiet operation is comparable to that of a car traveling at 28 miles per hour, making it less disruptive to both marine life and shoreline ecosystems.
Economic impacts of the ferry’s introduction are also promising. The Swedish Transport Administration has projected that replacing two diesel ferries with six P-12 vessels could increase service frequency from hourly to every 15 minutes, with a potential boost in passenger capacity of around 150 percent. The socioeconomic benefits of this transition are estimated at approximately SEK 119 million, or around $13.1 million.
The success of the Candela P-12 Shuttle has attracted interest from other global cities. Berlin and Mumbai are planning to implement similar vessels by 2026, while locations in the Maldives and Thailand are exploring the adoption of this technology. As urban centers continue to confront challenges related to congestion and climate change, Stockholm’s pioneering efforts with hydrofoiling electric ferries may serve as a model for sustainable urban water transport solutions worldwide.
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