Mumbai will soon have eleven aerial electric ferries for faster and greener travel across the city’s waterways. These new electric ferries will be operated by Mumbai-based company JalVimana.
The ferries will be the Swedish hydrofoiling boat, the Candela P-12, which lifts itself above the water using underwater wings. This reduces drag, lowers energy use, and cuts emissions.
The deal between JalVimana and Swedish boatmaker Candela was confirmed during Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s recent visit to Stockholm. JalVimana CEO Niraj Thakur and Candela CEO Gustav Hasselskog signed the agreement, according to a report in the Economic Times.
The Candela P-12 uses computer-guided hydrofoils to raise the boat’s hull above the water. This technology helps it move smoothly and silently. It also avoids wake and slamming, making the ride safer and more comfortable. The boat uses only a tenth of the energy that diesel boats need.
As per the report by ET, Hasselskog said the project shows the great potential of Mumbai’s waterways. He added that the electric ferries will improve how people travel in the city. Maharashtra’s government supports this plan as part of its aim to use more green technology in city transport.
Additionally, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane plan to bring in thousands of electric boats to improve links between the coast and public transport. The plan includes ways from the Gateway of India to Alibaug and to Elephanta Island. This will reduce travel time between Mumbai and Alibaug from nearly three hours to under thirty minutes. Another planned route will connect central Mumbai to the new airport.
The sale to JalVimana will reportedly create the world’s largest fleet of electric foiling ferries. The company name, JalVimana, is based on the word "vimana", which means flying palace or chariot in ancient Indian texts.