Last Updated on March 4, 2025 by Mrunal & Jiten
Nova completed its 15-kilometre route in nearly half the time of previous service
Candela Technology
By Alex Smith |
The world’s first electric hydrofoil ferry, Nova, has entered service in Stockholm, Sweden.
Nova departed from its dock in the suburb of Tappström and completed the 15-kilometre route to Stockholm’s City Hall in just over 30 minutes, nearly half the time of the time of the diesel-powered V-class ferries that previously held the speed record.
Nova is the first of the new P-12 model vessels designed by Candela Technology, a Stockholm-based company that specialises in hydrofoil electric vessels. Its computer-controlled hydrofoil wings lift the hull above water, reducing energy consumption by 80 per cent compared to conventional vessels by cutting water friction.
“This is a paradigm shift for urban transport and a revival of our waterways,” said Gustav Hasselskog, founder and CEO of Candela. “Conventional ships haven’t evolved much in 100 years and are among the least energy-efficient transport modes, only rivalled by a battle tank. Today, our waterways are underutilised due to the high costs, wake concerns, and emissions of traditional vessels. If we can unlock this potential, we can make cities more attractive.”
Region Stockholm aims to transition all of its public transport vessels to renewable energy, with the goal of reducing emissions and minimise disruptive wakes. As Nova flies above the water, it creates minimal wake, meaning that it is allowed to travel at high speeds within the city limits where other vessels are restricted by wake regulations. The ship also runs on 100 per cent renewable electricity and emits minimal noise at high speeds because of its electric C-POD motors, which have no mechanical transmission.
Nova also does not require additional dock infrastructure, charging at a regular car fast charger at the City Hall. Its range also allows it to match the schedule of conventional diesel ferries, with recharging carried out during the typical lunch break.
The ship will operate through autumn 2024 until the waters freeze, resuming service in spring and continuing until August 2025. The route is a pilot project run by Candela, Trafikverket and Region Stockholm aiming to explore how hydrofoil technology can enable faster, more affordable and emissions-free maritime travel.
Candela has received additional orders from Saudi Arabia, New Zealand and Germany, with further clients to be announced.
“For the first time, there is a vessel that makes waterborne transport faster, greener, and more affordable than land transport,” said Hasselskog. “It’s a renaissance for the world’s waterways, and it’s exciting that Stockholm is leading the way.”
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