California ski resort area orders US' first electric hydrofoil ferry

California company FlyTahoe and Swedish passenger shipping technology company Candela are introducing a new, zero-emission electric ferry on a freshwater lake in the US.

Candela, which calls its P-12 hydrofoil ferry, the world’s first flying electric ferry, recently launched its first vessel on Stockholm’s waterways, in Sweden.

The ferry venture with FlyTahoe will offer passengers a 30-minute cross-lake service, shortening average travel times in half compared to car trips from one end of the lake to the other, which number 20,000 on a typical day.

"The P-12 is the world’s first electric hydrofoil ferry, hailed as a ’game changer’ for waterborne transport by combining long range with high speed and a revolution in energy efficiency. This 30-seat vessel, designed to accommodate both skis and bikes, uses hydrofoil technology—computer-guided underwater wings—to fly above the water’s surface at high speeds, unaffected by waves and winds," Candela said.

The hydrofoil wings lift the vessel’s hull above the surface of the water to reduce drag and lower energy consumption by what Candela claims is 80% compared to "conventional" vessels.

"This is what allows the P-12 to be fully propelled by renewable electricity instead of fossil fuels, while providing a smooth ride above the waves even at high speeds," the company said. 

FlyTahoe said its service will link the 14 ski resorts encircling the lake.

“It’s ironic that while millions, myself included, drive around Lake Tahoe to admire its beauty, the road sediment we generate contributes to the largest threat to the lake’s famous cobalt blue clarity. Our service will provide a faster transport than cars or buses, while keeping Tahoe blue,” FlyTahoe CEO and founder Ryan Meinzer said.

“This fusion of flight and electric technologies not only unveils a powerful new business opportunity with nearly 10x operational efficiency but also offers an unmatched customer experience of comfort and safety. Plus, we’ll not just be moving people faster; we’ll be boosting socio-economic mobility by connecting the north and south of the lake,” Mr Meinzer adds.

Candela CEO and founder Gustav Hasselskog said the vessel is a "big step" toward unlocking the potential of US waterways for zero-emission transport.