The Swedish tech company Candela, the maker of the world’s fastest electric ship, the Candela P-12 Shuttle, will open its Asia-Pacific office in Singapore in conjunction with a demonstration of the ship’s technology at the Singapore Yacht Festival.

The P-12, which has computer-controlled wings beneath the hull flies above the water surface at high speeds, which considerably reduces friction. It differs from all other fast ships – electric or diesel – by using a staggering 80% less energy than traditional ferries. The company claims the P-12 is the first fast electric ferry with long range – up to 100 kilometres on one charge, at a speed of 25 knots.

When flying, it generates no waves or noise, and its outstanding energy efficiency drastically reduces operational costs compared with traditional ferries. Designed for multi-modal transport, the P-12 fits 30 seated passengers along with storage for bikes and luggage.

The first unit was launched last fall in Stockholm, and a pioneering P-12 line will be operational in the city’s local transport system later in 2024. A unique feature of the ship is that it generates minimal wakes even at high speeds.

In Asia-Pacific, a P-12 line will be inaugurated in New Zealand in 2025, where Meridian will operate the ferry on the country’s pristine Lake Manapouri. As well, in Asia-Pacific, the company will also market its leisure boat, the Candela C-8, which uses the same hydrofoil technology and software as the P-12 and is the best-selling electric boat in Europe.

“Across the Asia-Pacific, from archipelagos to cities, we see a huge market and demand for new sustainable transport solutions that can reduce congestion and emissions,” adds Björn Antonsson, the company’s regional CEO for Asia-Pacific. “Our technology offers quicker journeys, lower costs for operators and zero emissions.”