The P-12 electric wing passenger ship developed by the Swedish company Candela has completed its first test flights near Stockholm. The development involves a computer-controlled system lifting the hull to reduce water friction. 

At speeds of over 18 knots, the Candela P-12 uses 80% less energy than traditional high-speed vessels. This innovation addresses the main problems that have so far hindered the widespread adoption of fast electric vessels: limited range and slow speeds due to the excessive energy consumption of conventional hulls. The ship is now being mass-produced at the Candela factory in Rotebro. 

In its first flights, the Candela P-12 reached a top speed of 30 knots, a record for electric passenger ships. With a range of up to 50 nautical miles, she is also the first electric vessel capable of covering the majority of coastal traffic. The tests also confirmed the minimal tail wave, which allows exceptions to speed limits as the P-12 does not erode shorelines or damage docks or moored vessels, even at full speed. 

Maritime transport is responsible for 3% of global CO2 emissions, a figure that is predicted to rise to 13% in the coming decades if no action is taken. Great hopes are therefore placed on electric ships, with the electric ship market estimated at $3034 billion by 31,48. However, many operators shy away from investing in alternative drives. 

The ship costs around 1,7 million euros each 

With a price of 1,7 million euros, the 30-seat shuttle variant of the P-12 corresponds to the cost of an ICE ship of similar size and is priced well below other electric options. This is possible thanks to the efficiency of the hydrofoil, which allows for greater range with a modest 252 kWh battery. Combined with streamlined series production, this results in industry-low overall unit costs. 

Once operational, operators can expect a reduction in fuel costs of up to 90% compared to diesel vessels. The C-POD engines require minimal maintenance and the vessel is designed to operate with a single crew, further reducing costs. Overall, the P-12 is expected to reduce costs per passenger kilometer by up to 50%, achieving similar per passenger economics to a hybrid electric bus. 

Manufacturer offers three different versions 

 The P-12 is a versatile platform designed for a range of use cases and customers, from public transportation to customized private shuttles. It is available in three variants: the P-12 Shuttle, the P-12 Business and the P-12 Voyager. 

The shuttle configuration accommodates 30 passengers and sets the benchmark for sustainable commuting with the lowest operating costs in the industry. The allocated space for bicycles (as well as strollers and wheelchairs) promotes the integration of bicycles into public transport. 

The Business version features a premium interior with 12 to 20 seats (and plenty of suitcases), and the highly adaptable Voyager version offers customers flexibility in interior design and is aimed at both private leisure and business customers.