Mumbai Set to Implement Electronic Water Vehicles from Candela: Hydrofoil Ferries
Mumbai, the bustling metropolis home to over 23 million residents, is set to revolutionise its transport infrastructure with the introduction of a new electric ferry service. This ambitious initiative is a collaboration between the state government of Maharashtra, local operator JalVimana, and Swedish marine technology company Candela.
The partnership will see the first 11 electric vessels, designed by Candela, brought into service. The state-of-the-art Candela P-12 ferries are equipped with hydrofoil technology, which lifts the hull above the water using computer-controlled underwater wings. This innovative design reduces drag, energy use, and noise while eliminating wake, ensuring a smooth and quiet journey.
Journey times on this connection are expected to be significantly reduced. For instance, the journey between Mumbai and Alibaug, currently taking around 90 minutes by car, is anticipated to be less than 30 minutes by water. The electric ferry service will also extend to routes linking Mumbai's forthcoming airport to the city centre, further streamlining travel within the city.
The introduction of these electric ferries is part of a broader state-led effort to utilise Mumbai's coastline and bay areas for high-capacity, low-emission commuting. This initiative aims to alleviate the significant pressure on Mumbai's transport infrastructure and contribute to environmental targets by offering an alternative to road-based transport.
Gustav Hasselskog, the founder of Candela, is honoured to see the Swedish-designed ferries grace Mumbai's ancient shores. JalVimana plans to expand the electric ferry service beyond the initial fleet, contributing to a broader electric ferry network covering Mumbai's coastline and inland waterways.
The deployment of the electric ferries will not only support urban mobility but also mark a significant step towards a sustainable future for India's coastline and inland waterways. The initiative is expected to be a giant leap for Mumbai, bringing next-generation technology to its shores and paving the way for a greener, more efficient transport system.
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