Stockholm-based Candela which is the world leader in hydrofoil electric boats that fly above the surface of the water to consume less energy has showcased a new boat which is based on an electric power train. The Candela P-8 Voyager has been designed to replace traditional water taxis and commercial passenger water carts that have relied on the combustion engine. The boat which has been unveiled in Venice is based on the same foundation as the C8 electric speedboat.

The P8 relies on a hydrofoil system which is used on other electric boats by the brand. It has been designed by more than 50 engineers who have experience in the drone, aerospace and software industries. The onboard flight controller changes the foil angle of attack when the boat reaches the speed of 16 knots allowing it to lift off and fly above the surface of the waves.

The flight controller for the boat relies on a wide array of sensors to gauge the wave height and ensure a smooth ride even in adverse conditions. The system can handle four to five-foot-long chop and boat wakes thanks to its high ride height and quick adjustments to roll, pitch and elevation that happens 100 times per second.  The system is also used for areas that are sensitive to boat wakes such as Venice itself. The hydrofoil system has almost zero wakes and the hydrofoils are not larger than Venice's famous gondolas.

Te P8 voyager has been designed to be very light on maintenance. The Candela C-Pod motor has been specifically developed for the company's hydrofoiling watercraft. It has a pair of submerged motors which provide 50 kW of power and directly drive the counter-rotating propellers without the need for any transmission.

This also means no oil, no noise and no cooling fluid which means no maintenance. It can also run 3,000 hours without service with is 30 times higher than any internal combustion-based system. It is also a fully connected boat and supports OTA updates enabling Candela's 24/7 service department to perform remote troubleshooting.

P8 Voyager cruises at 20 knots and has a top speed of 30 knots which means it is faster than the internal combustion. The boat is 28 ft long and offers space for up to 6 passengers.