The Candela C-8 is the world's first electric hydrofoiling boat in production. It soars above the water on two wings, reducing drag and energy consumption by 80 percent, leading to a long range at high speed.
A standout feature? It prevents seasickness, using tech derived from jet fighters. The C-8 is having its UK premiere at the Southampton Boat Show, which runs from 15 to 24 September 2023.
The Candela C-8 has two carbon-fibre wings slung under the hull, which at high speeds lift the boat out of the water, slashing drag by approximately 80 percent compared to traditional boats.
The benefits over conventional vessels are long range and high speed, but there are more perks: its unique computer system, a Flight Controller, automatically adjusts the hydrofoils in real time, ensuring the ride remains stable and smooth, even in choppy waters.
This system, reminiscent of the control systems found in jet fighters, allows passengers to experience the exhilaration of gliding over water without the discomfort of motion sickness.
“It's a vastly more comfortable ride than ordinary boats. The C-8 is the ultimate cure for seasickness,” says Mikael Mahlberg, Candela's Head of Communications.
In a unique collaboration with premium electric car maker Polestar, the boat is powered by the same 69kWh battery used in the Polestar 2 electric car. The battery drives a dual-motor pod with contra-rotating propellers, called the Candela C-POD, which is designed for high efficiency and emits almost no noise even at 20+ knots cruise speed.
The C-POD and foil system makes the C-8 the most efficient powerboat ever. At a speed of 22 knots, it only draws 25 hp from the battery. For comparison, a conventional, planing, 28ft cabin cruiser is typically equipped with a 300-horsepower gasoline outboard motor.
The Candela C-8 can cruise for longer distances than any electric powerboat in production before it: over 50 nautical miles on battery power at a speed of 22 knots. The C-8 can also reach a top speed of 27 knots.
While the Candela C-8’s tech stands out, it is also designed to be a luxury cruiser with all the amenities expected in a premium boat. It has a large, comfortable cockpit with seating for eight persons, a big sunbed, a spacious front cabin equipped with berths for two adults and two kids, and a marine toilet.
The unique combination of long range, comfort and high-tech features has made the Candela C-8 an international best-seller with over 150 orders in short time.
The C-8 will, for the first time in the UK, be on display at the Southampton Boat Show, where visitors will have the opportunity to see it up close and learn more about its features and benefits.