The P-12 Shuttle, made by the Swedish company Candela, is a new electric passenger ferry that glides over the water. Candela says the ferry has a speed of up to 30 mph, while running silently on electricity.
According to Candela's official website, the P-12 ferry uses two Candela C-POD motors and a 252 kWh battery. It has three carbon-fiber hydrofoils that lift its hull, which helps reduce drag. This design cuts energy use by 75% compared to regular fast boats. As a result, the P-12 can travel farther using less power and operates without the noise and pollution typical of diesel boats, reports The Daily Star.
Gustav Hasselskog, founder and CEO of Candela, as stated in a recent coverage by Reuters said, “Passenger ferries have traditionally required a lot of fuel, which is both costly and environmentally taxing. With our hydrofoil technology, combined with an electric drivetrain, we've created a model that cuts energy use while keeping operations cost-effective."
The P-12 can accommodate up to 30 passengers, including bicycles and wheelchairs. It currently runs a direct service from the island of Ekero in Lake Mälaren to central Stockholm.
A Reuters report states that this new route shortens the typical 50-minute journey to just 25 minutes. The ferry is scheduled to operate five days a week, from Tuesday to Saturday, and will take a seasonal break during the winter.
The P-12 is designed to handle rough water, capable of gliding over waves up to one meter high and switching to a regular catamaran mode in tougher conditions, according to Candela. Its carbon-fiber hydrofoils can withstand small debris and are built with a specific breaking point to absorb larger impacts, such as rocks or logs.
With its launch in Stockholm, the P-12 highlights the potential for electric ferries to alleviate congestion and cut emissions in cities with accessible waterways.
Bd-pratidin English/Afia
