Late last year, Swedish premium boatmaker Candela began production on the Candela C-8 Polestar Edition, an electric hydrofoil boat powered by Polestar’s electric vehicle batteries. Now, with the announcement of the vessel’s first delivery, we’re getting our closest look ever at this premium electric speedboat.
The Candela C-8’s advanced powertrain, which propels the boat while hydrofoils lift it out of the water for a smooth and efficient ride, is a result of the collaboration between Candela and Polestar, another Swedish performance electric automaker. This partnership, announced last year, pairs Candela’s innovative hydrofoils and C-POD motors with Polestar’s industry-leading batteries, creating a one-of-a-kind electric watercraft.
The Polestar batteries have enabled the C-8 to achieve remarkable performance milestones, including setting a new world record for the longest distance traveled by an electric boat in 24 hours. This feat was made possible by the fast charging capability of Polestar’s batteries. For those who don’t require fast charging, the batteries can also be recharged using Candela’s 11 kW three-phase AC charger.
The Candela C-8 Polestar Edition includes several premium upgrades beyond the standard luxury C-8 model. The interior features specially designed upholstery and a unique solid grey exterior colorway paired with a lighter grey tone for the interior. This design gives the C-8 Polestar Edition a sleek, uniform look, using marine-certified textile throughout, including seats, cushions, sunbeds, and wall and cabin roof panels.
Polestar’s design department drew inspiration from automotive seat designs to create bespoke seat upholstery for the C-8 Polestar Edition, enhancing the smooth and silent ride of the electric hydrofoil boat. The hydrofoils are painted in the iconic Swedish gold color, drawing on the performance aesthetics of Polestar’s cars.
“Candela’s hydrofoil technology is a paradigm shift for sustainable performance in the marine industry. Like the first time driving an electric car, you instantly feel that this is the future when the boat ‘takes off’ – and now with the special gold details that we so proudly exhibit on our cars,” explained Maximilian Missoni, Head of Design at Polestar.
Gustav Hasselskog, CEO and founder of Candela, added, “We’re extremely proud to be working with the brilliant teams at Polestar. We share a common goal of moving the world in a more sustainable direction. Design is an extremely powerful tool, as it can persuade people to make the right choice. In the C-8 Polestar edition, we have the most desirable leisure boat on the market, in every respect.”
With the first Candela C-8 Polestar Edition now delivered, this collaboration between Candela and Polestar showcases the potential of combining innovative design with cutting-edge technology to create sustainable and luxurious marine transportation solutions.