The Candela C-8 electric boat was conceived with a “minimalist Nordic design” focused on efficiency. This boat reduces water friction by flying over waves using hydrofoils, while its sleek, rounded bow and tapered stern decrease air resistance. Advanced computer modeling has been used to simulate drag, incorporating details such as flush-folding cleats and a sloped windshield that improve both aesthetics and aerodynamic efficiency.
Efficiency and design of the Candela C-8 electric boat
“We are honored to have our efforts to redefine the boating experience recognized by the German Design Council,” commented Niklas Nordin, Candela’s Head of Products. “The C-8 is a testament to functional design, where its minimalist aesthetics stem from the need for lightness and aerodynamics. The efficiency of the C-8 is crucial to making a truly sustainable ship. Like the gliders, with their smooth, sleek lines, it is designed to be as ‘slippery’ as possible.”.
The design, along with the hydrofoil system, a lightweight carbon fiber composite structure and a high energy density Polestar battery, makes the Candela C-8 one of the most efficient motorboats in the world. most efficient motorboats in the world.
When flying over water, the Candela C-8 uses 80% less energy than a conventional powerboat, allowing for long range on battery power. With a top speed of 27 knots and the ability to cover more than 50 nautical miles at 22 knots, the C-8 is the first electric boat that can compete with fossil fuel boats in terms of performance.
When lifted, the C-8 “takes off” at 16 knots, providing a quiet and smooth ride for passengers. At the bottom, the ship’s flight controller, assisted by sensors that detect waves, adjusts the hydrofoil’s angle of attack 100 times per second so that passengers do not feel the motion of the sea, seeking to eliminate the risk of seasickness.
The Candela C-8 and its impact on the environment
Other outstanding features include Candela’s C-POD motor. This fully submerged, direct-drive electric motor aims to provide a quiet ride and no transmission losses, with a durability of 3,000 maintenance-free hours, ten times longer than a gasoline outboard motor.
“In designing the C-8, our goal was to reinvent the sailing experience from the ground up,” added Nordin. “What would happen if we eliminated all the negatives associated with motorboats while keeping the positives? With the C-8, you get speed and range for your travels, but without the pollution, noise, high fuel costs and high maintenance of ICE engines. For me, the most impressive thing is the silence. Flying over the waves at 20 knots and being able to talk to passengers in a normal tone of voice is impossible on a conventional ship.”.
Candela recently celebrated the delivery of the 40th Candela C-8 produced at its factory in Stockholm, Sweden.
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Source: renewableenergymagazine
Photo: Candela
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