Nova: Stockholm’s First Electric Foil Ferry

Nova, the premier electric foil ferry in Stockholm, halves travel times, offering fast, eco-friendly, and silent transportation.

On Tuesday morning at 7:15 AM, Stockholm inaugurated Nova, the world’s first electric foil ferry in regular service. This ferry, departing from Tappström, connects the 15 km separating the capital’s suburbs in just 30 minutes. Traditional ferries, on the other hand, take about an hour to make this journey.

The Candela P-12 model of Nova utilizes foil technology. This allows the hull to lift above the water and reduces energy consumption by 80% compared to traditional vessels. Powered by 100% renewable energy, Nova can maintain a speed of 25 knots even within the city. And it does so without producing a wake or disturbing the surrounding waters. Gustav Hasselskog, founder of Candela, envisions this technology as a means to revitalize waterways: “If we manage to tap into this potential, we can make cities more attractive for everyone.”

Unprecedented performance for maritime shuttles

Nova combines speed, sustainability, and comfort, offering an efficient alternative to diesel ferries. Classic vessels are often limited by their consumption at high speeds. However, the Candela P-12 can easily recharge at car-type charging stations installed in the city center. Its range is sufficient to align with the schedules of diesel ferries and recharge during breaks.

Operational until autumn 2024, Nova is expected to resume its service in the spring. It could inspire other cities to transform their waterways into eco-friendly transportation solutions. This pilot project, led by Candela, Trafikverket, and the Stockholm region, could revolutionize urban mobility by offering a model where speed, accessibility, and respect for the environment converge to enhance mobility.

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