Sweden's electric surfboard revolutionizes the waves with the Lind Canvas

In Sweden, a revolutionary electric surfboard named the Lind Canvas has taken shape, developed by a Swedish-U.S. team led by entrepreneur Alex Lind. The project, which started in 2021, cost approximately $9 million and aimed to address the challenges of traditional surfing by introducing an innovative propulsion system. Unlike the initial prototypes that weighed nearly 100 kilograms, the final product weighs only 35 kilograms due to the efforts of a team comprised of 20 experts, including two former NASA engineers. Their task was to create a twin-motor jet system that enhances the board's performance while ensuring ease of transport. The Lind Canvas is designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind, introducing a battery pack and propulsion unit that can be detached for convenience. The vehicle operates beneath the water's surface, reducing the risk of overheating that plagues previous electric surfboards. This technological advancement lets users enjoy a surfing experience that, while different, is visually similar to traditional surfing. Customers can even personalize their boards through collaboration with skilled shapers, allowing for bespoke designs tailored to individual preferences. Testing the board for the first time, the user quickly realizes the ease of handling and the rush of speed, making it accessible even to those without prior surfing experience. Despite its modern innovations, the Lind Canvas does face some criticism from traditional surfers who feel that it undermines the spirit of classic surfing. However, the creators clarify that the board is not meant to compete with conventional boards but rather cater to users in areas with limited surfing conditions, such as Stockholm, where waves are scarce. The Lind Canvas features a 192-cell battery that takes only an hour to charge, providing at least an hour of use. This efficiency means new owners can be on the water shortly after purchase, further promoting accessibility. The emergence of this electric surfboard suggests a trend in the surfing industry towards innovation and modernization, potentially changing how people engage with the sport in the years to come.