Sweden’s commitment to sustainable urban transport took a revolutionary leap forward with the launch of Nova, the world’s first electric hydrofoil ferry. Operated by Candela, this innovative vessel promises to change Stockholm’s waterways forever, cutting down travel times while maintaining a zero-emissions footprint.
Known officially as the Candela P-12 “Nova,” the vessel began service in Stockholm with the ambitious goal of reshaping public transport. The ferry’s advanced hydrofoil technology allows it to glide above the water, effectively reducing drag, minimizing noise, and offering a smoother, faster commute for passengers.
With its first voyage departing at 7:15 a.m. on a quiet Tuesday morning from Tappström, a suburb of Stockholm, Nova soared above the water, completing the 15-kilometer journey to Stockholm City Hall in just over 30 minutes—nearly half the typical commute time.
Stockholm’s bustling water routes see considerable traffic, especially during peak hours. Yet despite public demand, water transport has been both expensive and environmentally taxing. Over 70 public transport vessels in the city consume more fossil fuels than Stockholm’s buses and trains combined, even though their ridership is only a small fraction of the city’s overall commuters.
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The traditional diesel ferries also produce considerable wakes, leading to strict speed restrictions in the heart of the city. With Nova, this problem is virtually eliminated, as the ferry’s hydrofoil wings lift it above the water, reducing friction by 80% compared to conventional boats and creating almost no wake.
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This efficiency means the ferry can operate at high speeds within the city center without compromising safety or environmental standards. For Stockholm—and potentially cities worldwide—this ferry is poised to set a precedent for sustainable and efficient water transport.
Engineering Marvel: Hydrofoil Technology and Eco-Friendly Design
At the core of Nova’s success lies its hydrofoil technology. Designed to address the longstanding limitations of conventional vessels, Nova operates on computer-controlled hydrofoil wings that lift its hull above the water, significantly reducing drag.
This feature not only makes the ferry faster but also incredibly energy-efficient, using 80% less energy than traditional ferries. The hydrofoil mechanism also allows Nova to maintain stability in various water conditions, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride for passengers.
Unlike diesel-powered ferries that are noisy and emit pollutants, Nova’s electric C-POD motors operate quietly and release no emissions, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional water transport.
Candela’s innovative design also overcomes the challenges posed by conventional fast vessels. Historically, achieving high speeds on water has required massive energy consumption, especially for ferries carrying heavy batteries, which would often limit their range.
However, Nova’s hydrofoil system not only reduces energy needs but also allows for quicker, more agile navigation. The vessel’s speed of 25 knots makes it the fastest public transport vessel in Stockholm, surpassing the city’s diesel-powered V-class ferries.
Additionally, Nova charges using standard car fast chargers at its City Hall stop, making recharging efficient and eliminating the need for expensive dock infrastructure. Candela’s groundbreaking approach to energy use and speed has positioned Nova as a flagship model for future electric ferries worldwide, with orders for Candela P-12 already placed by countries like Saudi Arabia and New Zealand.
Reshaping Urban Commuting for a Greener Future
As a pilot project operated by Candela, Trafikverket, and Stockholm’s SL transport agency, Nova aims to demonstrate how hydrofoil technology can transform public water transport. Serving the route from Ekerö to Stockholm City, Nova is not only helping reduce travel times but also promoting sustainable commuting options.
Ekerö, one of Stockholm’s fastest-growing suburbs, has been plagued by long commute times due to heavy traffic and limited transport options. By offering a faster, environmentally friendly solution, Candela’s hydrofoil ferry has the potential to improve quality of life for residents while supporting the city’s emissions reduction targets.
Traditional modes of transport like buses and diesel-powered ferries face significant delays and restrictions, especially during peak hours. Nova’s ability to glide at high speeds through city waterways bypasses traffic bottlenecks, potentially drawing more commuters toward public water transport and reducing road congestion.
The implications of Nova’s success go beyond Stockholm. By showcasing how clean and efficient water transport can be, Candela’s project is likely to inspire similar initiatives in other cities with underutilized waterways. As urban areas become increasingly congested, cities worldwide are exploring alternative commuting options.
Waterways, often neglected in favor of land routes, offer untapped potential for sustainable commuting, and hydrofoil ferries like Nova could play a vital role in reviving this old but efficient mode of transport.
Candela’s CEO Gustav Hasselskog emphasized that the hydrofoil ferry is more than just an alternative transport option; it’s a blueprint for a future where cities leverage waterways for faster, greener, and more affordable transit.
As Nova continues its pilot route through August 2025, its performance and impact on Stockholm’s public transport landscape will be closely monitored. For residents and environmental advocates alike, Candela’s hydrofoil ferry is a promising step toward a future where high-speed, emission-free travel is the norm, not the exception.
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