NEOM Orders Eight Candela Foiling Electric Ships for Zero-Emission Water Transport

NEOM has placed the largest order in Candela’s history, procuring an initial batch of eight foiling electric shuttle ships. These Candela P-12 vessels, known as the world’s first electric hydrofoil ships, will be integrated into NEOM’s planned water transport network in Northwest Saudi Arabia.

Advancing Zero-Emission Water Transport
The Candela P-12 is designed to revolutionize water transport with a focus on zero emissions. Gustav Hasselskog, CEO and founder of Candela, highlighted the significant advantages of the P-12 over traditional water commuting systems. Unlike conventional ferries, which are typically large, slow, and energy-inefficient, the P-12 is a smaller, faster unit that enables more frequent departures and quicker journeys for passengers. This innovation will make daily necessities and services easily accessible by a short boat commute.

Delivery and Deployment
The first batch of eight Candela P-12 vessels is scheduled for delivery between 2025 and early 2026. The P-12, which was launched last year, is set to make its debut in Stockholm’s public transport system in the fall of 2024. These vessels fly above the waves on computer-guided hydrofoils, using 80% less energy than conventional ships. This energy efficiency allows the P-12 to achieve long-range and high-speed travel, making it the fastest and longest-range electric passenger ship to date.

Cutting-Edge Technology for Stability and Efficiency
The Candela P-12 is equipped with a digital flight control system that adjusts the hydrofoils’ angle of attack 100 times per second, ensuring stability even in challenging wind and wave conditions. Energy efficiency is a critical aspect of the P-12’s design, as fuel consumption accounts for the majority of a ship’s environmental impact. A life cycle analysis conducted by the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm revealed that the P-12 emits 97.5% less CO2 during its lifetime compared to a conventional diesel vessel of the same size.

Conclusion
Candela’s P-12 ships represent a significant step forward in creating sustainable, efficient, and high-performance water transport systems. NEOM’s order of these vessels underscores the commitment to innovative solutions that reduce emissions and contribute to the development of future-oriented infrastructure.