Press release -
Candela and Al Seer Marine Partner to Transform Sustainable Waterborne Public Transport in Abu Dhabi
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Abu Dhabi, UAE – 7thMarch 2024 – Candela, the leading manufacturer of zero-emission, electric hydrofoil boats, and Al Seer Marine, a global maritime organization headquartered in Abu Dhabi, today announced a strategic partnership to revolutionize waterborne public transportation within the emirate.
A Sustainable Public Transportation Revolution
The game-changing Candela P-12 electric ferry for 30 passengers boasts groundbreaking hydrofoiling technology. At high speed, underwater ‘wings’ lift the vessel above the water, reducing energy consumption by 80%. As a result, Candela P-12 is the first battery electric ferry to achieve a long range at high speeds. It combines a luxurious and silent passenger experience with minimal environmental impact, as the vessel generates no wake. For public transport operators, the hydrofoil efficiency brings substantial cost savings.
Al Seer Marine, a company at the forefront of innovation and sustainability in maritime transportation, recognizes the transformative potential of Candela's technology and is excited to collaborate in bringing this cutting-edge solution to Abu Dhabi.
Through this collaboration, the two companies aim to:
- Transform waterborne public transportation in Abu Dhabi by introducing Candela's electric hydrofoil boats for public transport use. This will offer a unique and sustainable transportation option.
- Establish a robust sales and service network within Abu Dhabi to ensure seamless operation and customer support. This network will also provide comprehensive service, maintenance, and aftermarket support for Candela's public transport vessels in the emirate.
- Explore further collaboration opportunities to develop and implement innovative and sustainable public waterborne transport solutions specifically tailored to Abu Dhabi's needs.
A Greener Future for Abu Dhabi
This partnership paves the way for a greener future in Abu Dhabi. By introducing electric hydrofoil technology, Candela and Al Seer Marine are fostering a shift towards cleaner and more sustainable public transportation within the emirate.
"We are thrilled to partner with Al Seer Marine to bring our revolutionary electric foiling vessels to Abu Dhabi," said Erik Eklund, Director of Commercial Vessels at Candela. "Their dedication to innovation and sustainability in waterborne transportation perfectly aligns with our vision for a greener future."
"At Al Seer Marine, we are constantly seeking ways to advance sustainable solutions in the maritime sector," said Holger Schulte-Hillen, Chief Operating Officer of Innovation, Security & Technologies at Al Seer Marine. "This collaboration with Candela is a significant step forward, and we are excited to bring this transformative technology to Abu Dhabi."
About Al Seer Marine
Al Seer Marine is a global maritime organization headquartered in Abu Dhabi. Our extensive service portfolio encompasses commercial shipping, yachting, boat building, large-scale 3D printing, unmanned vessel platforms and capabilities, and cutting-edge technological innovations. We seamlessly integrate top-tier services, innovative technological solutions, and a proven track record of operational excellence.
About Candela
Candela is a Swedish company dedicated to developing and manufacturing electric hydrofoil boats. It recently launched the Candela P-12, the world’s first electric hydrofoil ferry, paving the way for fast, sustainable and cost-effective public commuting on water.
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Stockholm-based Candela Technology AB is the world leader in hydrofoiling electric vessels. The company was founded in 2014 by engineer and business leader Gustav Hasselskog with the mission to accelerate the world's transition to fossil fuel-free lakes and oceans by developing electric vessels that outperform those powered by fossil fuels.
Candela's watercraft have wings (hydrofoils) that lift the hull above the water and reduce friction, using 80% less energy than conventional ships at high speed. This technology allows for long-range water travel solely on battery power, a first in the industry. Candela's hydrofoils also enable operators to transition to sustainable fleets by providing up to 50% lower operational costs.
At the heart of Candela's hydrofoil tech stack is the Flight controller, which automatically stabilizes the vessel during flight by regulating the foils, using sensors that gauge wave height and wind speed, among other factors. Even in rough weather, passengers experience 90% less g-forces than they would on a traditional boat. All Candela vessels are fully connected and receive over-the-air updates.
After five years of research and development, Candela began producing the world's first electric hydrofoil leisure boat in 2019, the Candela C-7 open "roadster of the seas". This was followed in 2021 by the high-volume market Candela C-8, which was be delivered to the first customers in 2022. Over 150 C-8 units have been sold to date, and the vessel has been lauded as a "game changer" by Motorboat and Yachting magazine, winning numerous awards including the 2022 European Powerboat of the Year award for its superior seakeeping, long range, and high speed.
In 2023, Candela launched its first commercial vessel, the Candela P-12 Shuttle ferry. It is poised to set multiple world records for being the fastest and longest-range electric ship ever built, with a top speed of 30 knots and a range of up to 60 nautical miles. It will also be the most energy-efficient fast ship ever made in its size class. Substantial operational cost savings are expected. The first unit will go into public transport in Stockholm in 2024.
Candela is a technology company with headquarters in Stockholm, Sweden, employing over 200 engineers, technicians, and production staff. The company develops the entire tech stack, from the C-POD motor to the control system and carbon fiber hulls, in-house. Candela's two wholly-owned factories in Stockholm, Sweden, produce the Candela C-8 and P-12 vessels. The company also has leisure boat resellers in 12 countries and wholly-owned sales offices in San Francisco, USA, and Cannes, France.
