Swedish electric boat manufacturer Candela has made its Asia-Pacific debut at the Singapore Yachting Festival 2024, introducing fully electric pleasure craft and ferries to the local market. The electric pleasure craft sector in Singapore is still emerging, with only a few electric boats currently available, according to industry experts.

Candela’s C-8 electric boat, a recreational powerboat, is on display during the festival, which runs from April 25 to 28, 2024. The company is offering demonstration rides after the event at ONE°15 Marina from April 29 to May 1. The CEO for Candela’s Asia-Pacific region, Bjorn Antonsson, noted that the company has already reached mass production, with approximately 170 boats on order and 50 delivered worldwide.

Antonnson highlighted Singapore’s potential for both recreational and commercial vessels, such as ferries, stating, “Singapore is the financial and maritime capital of the region, and we are impressed with how progressive the authorities are here regarding maritime electrification.”

While other companies like Sunreef have been selling electric and hybrid diesel-electric craft in Singapore since late 2023, Candela’s boats utilize hydrofoil technology that lifts the vessel above the water. This design reduces drag, allowing the C-8 to achieve a range of about 60 nautical miles per charge—up to three times that of conventional electric boats. However, it still falls short of the range of typical diesel-powered boats, which can travel at least 150 nautical miles on a full tank.

The C-8 is equipped with battery technology from Swedish electric vehicle brand Polestar, and it features direct-current fast charging capabilities, allowing it to charge from 10% to 80% in just 35 minutes. This charging can be done at most marinas, facilitating ease of use for potential buyers.

In addition to the C-8, Candela is seeking buyers for its P-12 ferry, which can accommodate up to 30 passengers. The P-12 is currently being tested as a public ferry in Stockholm, Sweden, and Candela claims that due to its efficiency and lower maintenance costs, it can reduce operating expenses by half compared to diesel-powered ferries.

The push for electric boats aligns with Singapore’s broader goals for sustainable maritime practices. Shell’s electric ferry service to Pulau Bukom commenced last year, and trials for electric harbor craft, including the Singapore-made Pyxis One, began in 2024.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set a target for net-zero emissions in the maritime industry by around 2050, and while the strategy primarily focuses on commercial vessels, the overall goal of emission reduction extends to all maritime activities, including pleasure craft