Commuting along the Norwegian coast is set to become more eco-friendly with the addition of new P-12 electric hydrofoil vessels.

Norway’s Boreal has ordered 20 of these vessels from Sweden’s Candela Technology, the latter said in a press release, noting that this will mark the world’s largest electric fleet to date.

“Candela P-12 is the only electric passenger vessel that combines longer range with high speed without requiring extensive charging infrastructure. Our investment will enable new high-speed routes both in cities and in rural areas,” said Nikolai Knudsmoen Utheim, CEO at Boreal.

“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 and helping bring electric vessels to new markets beyond Norway.”

According to the press release, conventional e-ferries lack the range and speed to replace the diesel-powered fast ferries connecting more than 100,000 kilometers of Norway’s coastline.

The Candela P-12 solves this by combining a cruising speed of 25 knots with a range of around 40 nautical miles, enabling electric operation on routes previously only served by diesel vessels.

The first two P-12 vessels will be delivered in 2027 and are planned to enter service on one of several potential routes currently being explored in Norway and abroad.

The remaining vessels will follow in yearly batches between 2028 and 2030.

Once complete, the 20-vessel fleet is expected to provide more frequent departures and speed up travel times.

The P-12 has computer-controlled hydrofoils, or wings mounted beneath the hull, that lift the vessel above the water at speeds above 18 knots.

Candela says that this reduces drag, with an 80 percent decrease in energy consumption compared with conventional vessels of similar size.

Already in use in Stockholm’s public transport, the P-12 can fully recharge in an hour using standard DC car fast chargers.

An upgrade in comfort is also envisaged, as the vessel is said to ensure a smooth ride even in rough seas, while keeping cabin noise low.

“Tourists and commuters in Norway will enjoy better service and more frequent departures—free from seasickness, silent, and without the negative impacts of wake and emissions in the unique Norwegian fjords,” added Alexander Sifvert, Candela’s European director.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Boreal, whose ambition and leadership are helping drive the electrification of maritime transport. This initiative shows how forward-thinking operators can accelerate the shift to zero-emission travel at sea, while reducing costs.”