Swedish electric boat maker Candela is fast gaining momentum with $25 million in fresh funding and the pioneering deployment of its latest P12 ferry in New Zealand. The startup, known for designing highly efficient boats, has already realized and delivered multiple vessels, closing the total count at approximately 70, a noteworthy accomplishment in this sector.

In the past few years, Candela has noticeably expanded the size of its boats, beginning with the notably smaller C7 and C8 models. As of recent, the P12, a ferry prototype that can transport up to 30 passengers, made a successful debut towards the close of last year. The new vessel then claimed its first assignment last week, ferrying staff and visitors around New Zealand’s Lake Manapuri, housing the nation’s biggest hydroelectric power station. The shift to clean-running boats is projected to yield an estimated emission reduction of around 240 tons per annum.

The company’s efforts drew profound interest on a global scale, most notably from Groupe Beneteau, a prestigious, century-old boating company. Beneteau also participated significantly in Candela’s funding round. CEO Bruno Thivoyon emphasized that their investment in Candela aligns seamlessly with the company’s ecological transition goals, particularly by supporting innovative solutions towards sustainable boating.

Candela’s boats utilize hydrofoils with electric engines mounted underneath to “fly” above the water’s surface at certain speeds, resulting in significantly lower energy consumption. Although this approach requires a powerful autopilot system for balance and potential log-collision concerns, the overall benefits appear superior.

Riding the same wave, Navier aims to attract coastal communities with efficient and quiet transit solutions, while Zin Boats, although presently silent, is also securing markets for their upcoming vessel model.

The aforementioned $25M financial round found its major lead in Beneteau, accompanied by EQT Ventures, Ocean Zero LLC, and Kan Dela AB.

Source: Candela’s electric ferries multiply as the startup lines up $25M in new funding }}.