The Candela C-8 electric hydrofoil boat has successfully completed its maiden journey. In other words, it managed to achieve its target takeoff speed of 16 knots before cruising silently above water at a zippy 20 knots.
Electric hydrofoils are still a relatively new technology, compared to standard surfboards and what not, but the Fliteboard Series 2 aims to things to the next level. Developed by kite surfing world record holder David Trewern, it’s touted as the world’s first integrated electronic foil, which means the rider is essentially hovering above the water, without requiring any waves, wind or wake. It can hit a top speed of 27 mph.