TECHNOLOGY

For, as if the breathtaking backdrop of the fjords is not enough, Norway’ s coastal commuters will soon feel that they are floating on air.

Boreal AS has ordered a fleet of 20 Candela P-12 electric hydrofoil vessels that Candela is calling the“ magic carpet” for passengers.

It is the latest pioneering move in Norway, which has the highest proportion of electric cars per person and continues to demonstrate sustainability innovation.

Electric dream to decommission diesel? The quest to decarbonise maritime transport has often foundered when confronted by the challenge of matching the range and energy intensity of high-speed vessels. While Norway leads the world in electric car sales, with 99 % of new car sales EVs, the hurtigbåtar fast ferries that connect its 100,000 miles of fjord-lined coast have traditionally relied on diesel.

Boreal AS is changing the narrative with its order for 20 Candela P-12 electric hydrofoil vessels. These boats do not just float; they fly. By lifting the hull above the water, drag is reduced so significantly that energy consumption drops by 80 %.

This makes zero-emission travel possible on routes that previously required fossil fuels.

Nikolai Knudsmoen Utheim, CEO at Boreal, says:“ Norway has already led the electrification of maritime transport. With this fleet, Boreal wants to take the next step – accelerating zero-emission high-speed travel along the Norwegian coast.” Nikolai believes this investment will help bring electric vessels to new markets beyond Norway.

Lifting vessels above the waves The P-12’ s environmental credentials extend beyond its lack of tailpipe emissions. Because it hydrofoils, it creates virtually no wake.

102 June 2026