Swedish tech company Candela and Fly Tahoe have announced plans to introduce the U.S.’s first Candela P-12 electric hydrofoil ferry on Lake Tahoe, spanning the California-Nevada border. The high-speed vessel will offer a 30-minute cross-lake route, halving travel time compared to the 20,000 daily car trips along the same path.

Two P-12 ferries are already operating in Stockholm, Sweden. The 39.2-foot, 30-passenger vessel is touted as the fastest electric vessel with the longest range and significantly lower costs than diesel-powered alternatives. The ferry’s cabin accommodates skis and bikes, utilizing hydrofoil technology to “fly” above the water, reducing drag and cutting energy use by 80%. Sensors and software continuously adjust the underwater wings, ensuring a smooth, silent ride.

With a cruising speed of 25 knots, the ferry will connect Tahoe’s north and south ends, offering a sustainable alternative to the two-hour car trip around the lake, which never freezes in winter. Fly Tahoe CEO Ryan Meinzer emphasized the ferry’s role in reducing traffic and preserving the lake’s clarity.

This project aligns with studies by the Tahoe Transportation District identifying ferries as the best way to ease congestion. Candela CEO Gustav Hasselskog highlighted the P-12’s innovative technology, merging flight dynamics and electric efficiency to create a sustainable and economical transport solution.

Read more about it here: https://www.workboat.com/passenger-vessels/lake-tahoe-debut-for-candela-s-electric-hydrofoil-ferry