Future Tense cover image

Future Tense

Giving old technology a future-focussed twist

Nov 5, 2023
Hydrofoils are making a comeback as eco-friendly ferries in Sweden and the UK, while Swedish researchers explore electrifying roads. A floating, solar vegie-patch could boost food production in remote communities. Candela is revolutionizing hydrofoil technology for commercial use. Sweden aims to achieve zero net emissions by 2045 with electrified road systems. The podcast also discusses affordability, stability, and future applications of technology, as well as the intense moment when AlphaGo defeats the best Go player.
29:08

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Hydrofoil technology is being revitalized with advancements in electrification, offering a sustainable and efficient solution for public transportation.
  • Electrified road systems could potentially reduce battery size, alleviate range anxiety, and become a cost-effective option for heavy-duty vehicles.

Deep dives

Hydrofoils: A Second Coming

Hydrofoil technology, which was popular in the 1960s and 70s, is making a comeback with advancements in electrification. Candela, a Swedish company, has developed a new generation of hydrofoils that consume 75-80% less energy and offer increased range. This makes them attractive for commercial use, as operators can save on energy costs. The hydrofoil's design allows for faster speeds and reduced wake, making it suitable for public transportation. The first ferry to use this technology will run from a suburb to the city center of Stockholm, cutting the commuting time in half.

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