Saudi Arabia’s Neom orders electric hydrofoil ships for its water transport
network
NEOM, the ambitious sustainable development project in northwest Saudi
Arabia, has placed a historic order for eight Candela P-12 electric hydrofoil
ships, marking the largest order in Candela’s history. These cutting-edge
vessels will play a key role in NEOM’s planned water transport network.
The Candela P-12, the world’s first electric hydrofoil ship, is engineered
to deliver zero-emission water transport, significantly outperforming
traditional ferry systems. "The P-12 offers a revolutionary improvement
over legacy water commuting systems, which rely on large, slow, and
energy-inefficient ferries," said Gustav Hasselskog, CEO and founder of
Candela. "Our smaller, faster vessels allow for more frequent departures
and shorter travel times, making daily commutes across the water more
convenient."
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Launched in 2023, the Candela P-12 will debut in Stockholm’s public
transport system in fall 2024. The vessel, which glides above the water on
computer-guided hydrofoil wings, uses 80% less energy than conventional ships.
It combines long range and high speed, reaching up to 25 knots and sustaining
over two hours of operation, making it the fastest and longest-range electric
passenger ship available today.
The hydrofoil technology also enhances passenger comfort by ensuring a
smooth ride, even in challenging weather conditions. The P-12's digital flight
control system continuously adjusts the hydrofoils’ angles, balancing the ship
100 times per second to maintain stability in winds and waves.
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Energy efficiency is crucial in reducing the environmental impact of
maritime transportation, as the majority of a ship's emissions are generated
during operation. Candela’s P-12 is a game-changer in this regard, emitting
97.5% less CO2 over its lifetime compared to conventional diesel vessels of
similar size, according to a life cycle analysis conducted by the KTH Royal
Institute of Technology in Stockholm.
The P-12 can accommodate between 20 and 30 passengers, depending on the
configuration. Its electric C-POD motors, housed in underwater pods, operate
with exceptional silence, minimizing disturbances to marine wildlife. Moreover,
the P-12 produces a negligible wake, allowing for faster travel in areas where
conventional ships are restricted due to their large, damaging wakes.
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"We are proud to offer a vessel that prioritizes both passenger
experience and environmental sustainability," Hasselskog added. "With
reduced waiting times, quick connections, and a pleasurable journey free from
wakes, emissions, and noise, the P-12 will revolutionize water transport."
The first eight vessels are scheduled for delivery between 2025 and early
2026.
Source: Zawya
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