Stockholm, Sweden , April 8, 2025 – In a world racing toward decarbonization, Sweden is proving that the future of urban transport may just lie above water. The Candela P-12 Nova – the world’s first electric hydrofoil passenger ferry – is not only cutting CO₂ emissions drastically but also revolutionizing public transportation in Stockholm.
After a successful autumn trial and a short winter break, Nova will return to Stockholm’s waters on April 15 with an expanded schedule. The ferry has demonstrated not only climate benefits but also massive public appeal – an ideal combination for any urban planner or clean energy advocate.
⚡ Flying on Water: What Makes the Candela P-12 Different?
Developed by Swedish tech company Candela, the P-12 Nova is the first of its kind to integrate electric propulsion with advanced hydrofoil technology, allowing it to literally “fly” just above the water’s surface. This drastically reduces drag, resulting in up to 84% lower energy consumption per passenger-kilometre compared to traditional diesel ferries.
Its cruising speed of 25 knots makes it the fastest electric ship in the world, outpacing even Stockholm’s conventional archipelago ferries – all while producing minimal wake, preserving sensitive coastal ecosystems.
📊 Impressive Environmental and Operational Stats
According to new data released by Region Stockholm, which operates the ferry line:
Nova emits only 23 g of CO₂ per passenger-km, compared to 439 g/pkm by conventional ferries like Lux and Sunnan.
Energy use per passenger is just 0.39 kWh/km – an 84% improvement over its diesel counterparts.
The trial run saw 2,326 passengers across 120 departures, with an occupancy rate exceeding 80%.
Travel time between Tappström (Ekerö) and Stockholm City Hall is reduced to just 30 minutes – nearly half the time it takes by car or bus.
The statistics also reveal a 30% spike in overall ridership on water route 89 since Nova began operations – a sign that commuters are ready to embrace sustainable, waterborne alternatives.
🗣️ “Proof That Green Tech Works,” Says Candela CEO
“This is the third generation of our foiling technology,” said Gustav Hasselskog, CEO and Founder of Candela. “With over 100 electric leisure vessels already produced, we’re now scaling up production to meet rising demand for public transport solutions.”
Candela has received P-12 orders from clients in the USA, Saudi Arabia, New Zealand, and other nations. But Stockholm remains its flagship showcase – a city where waterways are not just scenic, but now part of the mobility solution.
🛳️ From Pilot to Daily Service
Given the strong public response and climate impact, Region Stockholm is ramping up the service from five days a week to daily operations by May. Officials are optimistic that this model could help alleviate traffic congestion and reduce dependence on cars – a win for urban sustainability.
Hasselskog adds, “We see untapped potential in the waterways of most global cities. Fast, zero-emission ferries can transform how we think about commuting.”
🌍 Why It Matters: A Model for the Future
As cities worldwide grapple with urban sprawl, traffic congestion, and climate targets, Stockholm’s Candela P-12 Nova provides a template for sustainable marine transport.
Not only is it faster and cleaner, but its popularity proves that people are eager to adopt new, green commuting alternatives when they are efficient and comfortable.
