Polestar and Candela: A Partnership in Electric Hydrofoils
Introduction
Polestar, known for its ultra-cool Scandinavian design, has partnered with Candela to create a stylish and modern electric hydrofoil boat. While it may seem surprising for a car brand to venture into the boating industry, the collaboration between Polestar and Candela goes beyond aesthetics. The boat features Polestar’s 69kWh battery pack and 135kW DC fast-charging system, showcasing a genuine technical partnership between the two Swedish firms.
The Philosophy Behind Candela
Candela, founded in 2014, aims to develop electric boats that offer superior range and speed. Overcoming the challenges faced by electric boats, which are hindered by water drag, Candela’s hydrofoils utilize the same principle as America’s Cup yachts. When the boat reaches a certain speed, C-foil hydrofoils are deployed, lifting the hull out of the water. This design allows the boat to reach a top speed of 35mph while using 80% less energy than conventional crafts.
The Technology Behind Candela’s Hydrofoils
Candela’s hydrofoils are made from carbon fiber to minimize weight. The boat is powered by Candela’s own outboard powertrain, called the C-Pod, which contains a pair of electric motors and contra-rotating propellers. This design improves efficiency and reduces noise. The boat also incorporates advanced computing power, including fly-by-wire steering and a ‘Flight Controller’ system that adjusts the boat’s position up to 100 times per second. A 15.4-inch touchscreen display offers features such as built-in navigation.
The Candela Range
Candela offers a range of hydrofoil boats, including the C-7 and C-8 leisure craft, which can seat up to eight people, and the P-8 and P-12 ferries, accommodating up to 30 passengers. The lack of wake when the ferries are ‘flying’ makes them ideal for busy harbors, attracting interest as commuter craft.
The Candela C-8 Polestar Edition
The Candela C-8 Polestar Edition, a special edition of the hydrofoil boat, features solid-grey exterior paint, marine-certified seat fabric from Polestar cars, and gold design elements. It is available in open, T-top, and hard-top forms, with prices starting from €400,000 (£335,000).
The Future of Electric Mobility
The partnership between Polestar and Candela represents a collaboration between industries in the electric mobility world. While there are no immediate plans for an amphibious Polestar car, the ideas and technology developed for the electric hydrofoil could potentially influence future vehicles. Polestar’s ongoing Polestar 0 project, aimed at developing a fully carbon-neutral car, demonstrates the brand’s willingness to work with partners from various industries.
Conclusion
Candela’s electric hydrofoils, powered by Polestar’s battery pack and charging system, offer an innovative solution to the challenges faced by electric boats. With a focus on range, speed, and efficiency, Candela has become a leading player in the electric boat space. The partnership between Polestar and Candela showcases the shared commitment to advancing electric mobility and the potential for cross-industry collaboration.
Experience of Flying in an Electric Boat
Although our experience with the Candela C-8 hydrofoil boat was brief, it left a lasting impression. The lack of noise, smooth movement as the boat rises out of the water, and stability provided by the narrow fins create a unique and enjoyable travel experience.
