Candela starts production of C-8 ‘powered by Polestar’ boat
Having recently set a 24-hour range record (483 miles) for electric boats with a prototype, production of Candela’s C-8 ‘powered by Polestar’ electric daycruiser has started in its Stockholm-based factory.
The Polestar-powered version, which was announced in January, unites the two Swedish premium electric companies’ efforts to accelerate the shift to more sustainable electric mobility. Candela says that the C-8 is the fastest-charging boat on the market, and is ready to take full use of the marine DC charging networks being built out in the US and Europe.
“Marine DC charging coupled with our hydrofoil technology’s long electric range will introduce new ways to explore on coastlines and archipelagos,” says Niklas Nordin, chief product officer at Candela. “Whereas cruising nautical miles in a day in a petrol-powered boat is challenging due to noise and slamming, it’s not only doable but very enjoyable in a C-8.”
With the capability to cruise at speeds up to 27 knots and recharge its battery in 35 minutes via DC charging, the latest C-8 is available in three versions; as an open Daycruiser, a weather-sheltered Hardtop and a T-TOP model for sunny climates.
In 2023, Candela is launching its first commercial vessel, the Candela P-12 Shuttle ferry, with a top speed of 30 knots and a range of up to 60 nautical miles. The company says it will also be the most energy-efficient fast ship ever made in its size class. Substantial operational cost savings are expected.
During this year’s SIBS, Kate Porteous, marketing for SE Yachts, announced her company would be taking the Candela C-8 on a UK tour. “Our aim is to give the boating community the chance to learn more about the Candela C-8 in the UK through a series of roadshows across some of the MDL Marinas’ network. . . Dates for the roadshows will be revealed soon alongside a comms campaign to grow awareness of the Candela C-8 electric hydrofoiling powerboat.”
