Stockholm has begun operating an electric hydrofoil ferry between the suburb of Ekerö and the city center, giving commuters a low-carbon alternative across the Swedish capital’s waterways. The Nova carried 25 passengers on its first service and traveled 15 kilometers to Stockholm City Hall in 30 minutes, compared with 45 minutes for the regular diesel ferry without stops.
The vessel uses computer-controlled carbon-fiber wings beneath its hull to lift about 1 meter above the water, reducing drag and energy use. It is designed for 25 passengers, including one wheelchair space, cruises at roughly 25 knots and can reach 30 knots. Because it produces little wake, it is exempt from Stockholm’s 12-knot speed limit in areas where conventional ferries must slow down to avoid damaging shorelines or affecting other boats.
The service began as a nine-month pilot operated within Stockholm’s public transport system. Climate and infrastructure councilor Gustav Hemming said the project was intended to encourage more residents to leave their cars and use public transportation. The city is built across 14 islands and has about 70 public transport vessels that use fossil fuels.
The same P-12 ferry model is also planned for Berlin, where operator Funkhaus/Reederei Riedel purchased a vessel for a proposed route between the East Side Gallery near Ostbahnhof and the Funkhaus cultural center. Its adjustable ramp is designed for docks between 0. 2 and 2 meters high, while a conventional car-grade direct-current charger could replenish its battery in about an hour.