First electric hydrofoil ferry in the US begins operating on Lake Tahoe

Candela and FlyTahoe have introduced the first US-based Candela P-12, a foiling electric ferry, on Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe’s electric hydrofoil ferry

The Candela P-12’s C-Pod electric propulsion system ensures zero emissions. The direct-drive C-Pod motors are reportedly the first maritime electric drivetrain that eliminates the risk of oil spills. Lacking the mechanical rattling of traditional transmissions, they ensure quiet operation both under and above the water, causing minimal stress to marine wildlife. 

The vessel uses hydrofoil technology – computer-guided underwater wings – to fly above the water’s surface at high speeds, unaffected by waves and winds.  The wings lift the hull above the water, reducing drag and cutting energy consumption by 80% compared with conventional vessels. This is what enables the P-12 to be fully propelled by renewable electricity instead of fossil fuels. 

“It basically works like a jet fighter, which is constantly balanced using ailerons. The principle of the P-12 is the same, except our wings fly in water instead of air,” said Gustav Hasselskog, CEO and founder of Swedish tech company Candela.

As the P-12 flies above the water, it doesn’t displace any water, leading to smaller wakes at high speeds. Wakes from conventional vessels can otherwise cause damage to docks, moored boats, smaller vessels such as paddleboards, and shorelines, but this is no longer an issue with the P-12, as shown in this video. The lack of wake has led to the P-12 receiving a speed exemption in Stockholm, making commutes faster and cutting travel times in half.

Passenger services

With the P-12’s cruising speed of 25kts (~30 mph), the companies will offer a 30-minute cross-lake service, cutting the travel time in half compared with a car trip along the same route. Around 20,000 such car trips are taken each day. The 30-seat vessel will create a link to the 14 ski resorts encircling the lake, and has therefore been designed to accommodate skis and bikes.

The vessel’s computer flight controller uses sensors and software to balance the craft above the waves and in wind, adjusting the foil’s angle of attack 100 times per second to provide a smooth and silent ride. This is intended to decrease passenger seasickness.

“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 the lake blue,” said Ryan Meinzer, founder and CEO of FlyTahoe.

Local economic impact

Lake Tahoe, the second-deepest lake in the US, never freezes over, so the ferry can operate year round. This added convenience is expected to enhance business and improve the lives of locals and tourists, providing a versatile zero-emission solution to reduce traffic during the summer and winter seasons.

A detailed analysis by the Tahoe Transportation District recognized ferries as the best solution to reduce traffic congestion along Lake Tahoe’s north-south route, citing lower costs per user and faster travel times than cars and buses. However, that analysis, conducted before the advent of the P-12 technology, did not account for the electric ferry’s ability to reduce energy use by 80% compared with traditional ferries – a factor that Meinzer stated bolsters the unit economics and overall business case.

“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,” Meinzer added.

“We’re proud to partner with FlyTahoe to bring this revolutionary technology to the US for the very first time. Not only will this ensure more efficient commuting around Lake Tahoe and unlock business possibilities for waterfront communities, but it’s also a big step toward unlocking the potential of US waterways for zero-emission transport,” added Hasselskog.

In related news, Candela recently closed the largest funding round in its history with €24.5m (US$26.6m) to expand production of its P-12 ferry. Click here to read the full story.