Stockholm’s Electric Ferry Cuts Travel Time and Emissions by 94%

Stockholm has unveiled a groundbreaking hydrofoiling electric ferry, the Candela P-12 Shuttle, which has successfully reduced carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 94 percent compared to traditional diesel ferries. Launched in late 2024, this innovative vessel is reshaping urban travel in the Swedish capital, which is spread across 14 islands and heavily relies on waterways for transportation.

The ferry operates between the suburb of Ekerö and central Stockholm, slashing commute times from 55 minutes to just 30 minutes. The Swedish Transport Administration has reported that the pilot program is a resounding success, with passenger numbers climbing by 22.5 percent during the trial period. Local officials have hailed the ferry as a potential “paradigm shift” for cities that utilize their waterways.

Revolutionary Technology Enhances Efficiency

The Candela P-12 Shuttle stands out as the first computer-controlled electric hydrofoil ferry in serial production. Its design incorporates carbon fiber wings, or hydrofoils, which generate lift and elevate the vessel above the water’s surface as it accelerates. This unique feature significantly reduces drag, allowing for higher speeds and lower energy consumption.

Equipped with an advanced onboard computer system, the ferry adjusts the angle of the foils in real-time, ensuring a stable and smooth ride. The environmental benefits extend beyond emissions; the ferry’s minimal wake minimizes shoreline erosion and ecological disturbance. Furthermore, noise levels are comparable to a car traveling at 28 miles per hour, making it a quieter option for urban waterways.

Economic Benefits and Expansion Opportunities

The success of the Candela P-12 Shuttle has economic implications as well. The increased passenger capacity could facilitate more frequent departures, potentially enhancing overall service efficiency. According to the report, replacing two diesel ferries with six P-12 vessels could raise departure frequency from hourly to every 15 minutes, boosting passenger capacity by approximately 150 percent. The projected socioeconomic benefit of this transition is estimated at SEK 119 million (around $13.1 million).

Dockside charging upgrades for the electric ferry are also less extensive compared to traditional electric options, contributing to lower operational costs due to reduced fuel consumption and maintenance needs.

The implications of this pilot program extend beyond Stockholm. Gustav Hasselskog, founder and CEO of Candela, envisions a future where urban waterways are transformed worldwide. “By combining high speed, minimal energy use, and near-zero emissions, we can unlock faster, cleaner, and more cost-efficient waterborne transport for cities worldwide,” he stated.

Other cities, including Berlin and Mumbai, are already looking to implement similar vessels by 2026, while locations in the Maldives and Thailand are preparing to adopt this cutting-edge technology. As urban areas face challenges related to congestion and climate change, Stockholm’s experiment serves as a compelling case study for reimagining transportation solutions that harness existing waterways, elevating transport above traditional roadways.