SMM Composites, a European supplier of large composite tooling, has delivered three high-precision molds for Candela s next-generation foiling vessels, reinforcing its role in advanced marine composite production for high-performance craft. This tooling support dovetails with progress on the all-carbon fiber (CFRP) 125-foot Nomad 7 sailing catamaran, developed in partnership with Multiplast and Avel Robotics scheduled for launch in 2026. The Nomad 7 represents a structural and manufacturing inflection point for leisure and performance multihulls, capitalizing on CFRP s unmatched strength-to-weight ratios and stiffness to achieve dramatic performance and efficiency gains.

These vessels, which fly above the water thanks to their foils, are silent, emission-free, and require minimal maintenance, reducing operating costs while protecting marine ecosystems.

A Collaboration Born from an Initial Technological Success

The relationship between SMM Composites and Candela began in 2018 during the development of the Candela C-7, the Swedish brand's first electric flying boat. This initial project, focused on the creation of direct molds, laid the foundation for a lasting collaboration. Building on this success, the two companies continued their partnership in 2022 with the Candela P-12, an electric ferry designed for public transportation. SMM Composites was chosen for its unique expertise in manufacturing machined direct molds, guaranteeing exceptional precision and controlled investment costs. SMM Composites' ability to design series molds incorporating assembly systems was also a key factor. Candela was looking for a reliable partner capable of delivering molds that perfectly met stringent industrial requirements.

A Demanding and Innovative Industrial Project

In 2025, again for the P-12, SMM Composites designed and manufactured three new series molds using infusion molding the roof (roof and upper walls), the main hull, and the AFT (rear section) featuring a specific surface coating for series production. These molds combine geometric precision, robustness, and durability, three essential qualities to meet the production rates at the Candela site in Sweden. The main complexity lay in the hull mold, a strategic component incorporating a rail-based opening and closing system. This system ensures perfect repeatability while simplifying the daily work of the production teams.

Ergonomics were given particular attention to reduce physical strain and optimize handling times. Certain high-precision areas were designed to be interchangeable, an innovation that allows the molds to be quickly adapted to changes in the project. The design and manufacturing took place over a period of approximately nine months, a schedule adjusted several times to incorporate new technical and design requirements formulated by Candela as development progressed.

A Partnership Dedicated to Sustainable Mobility

The Candela P-12 represents a major step forward in the decarbonization of maritime transport. Thanks to its hydrofoils, this electric ferry significantly reduces energy consumption and local emissions, while offering unparalleled sailing comfort and minimizing the impact on the seabed, unlike conventional ships that disrupt underwater ecosystems.

This project also illustrates how the use of high-precision composites and standardized industrial processes helps reduce the carbon footprint of boats: less mass, improved hydrodynamic efficiency, and optimized manufacturing. Candela's investors include the French group Beneteau, further strengthening the company's position as a leader in the field of electric maritime transport.

A Smooth and Structured Cooperation

Throughout the project, the SMM Composites and Candela teams maintained close collaboration, punctuated by technical meetings and meticulous progress monitoring. The initial mold assembly was carried out in Lanester, at SMM's workshops, to validate technical conformity (Factory Acceptance Test). Once the system was approved, the molds were transported and reassembled in Sweden at the Candela factory, using assembly instructions developed by SMM Composites.

A Lever for International Development

This partnership strengthens SMM Composites' position in the European market. The company already generates 20% of its revenue from exports, with clients in the UK, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. The collaboration with Candela reinforces this momentum and opens up new opportunities in the field of sustainable maritime mobility. It also confirms SMM's ability to meet the demands of even the most ambitious international projects.

The two companies plan to continue their collaboration on Candela's future developments.

Source SMM Composites