750: Propeller
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Choosing the power of your electric motor is something important. It must be enough to be able to get out of a bad situation in case of heavy seas or a gust of wind, but not too much as it will determine the size of the battery pack and therefore the final cost.
The power necessary to move a boat at a desired speed or to with headwinds depends on many factors :
Other factors can significantly influence consumption :
In total, less than 50% of the power consumed will be used for propulsion. The loss can be much greater with the wrong choice of propeller, motor or equipment. Savings can sometimes become expensive when you have to increase the size of the battery pack to compensate for low overall efficiency.
Other factors can cause 2 identical boats to have very different performance :
There are different ways :
Example of a power calculation
This tool could help you make a decision, but it is in no way a recommendation. Our experience shows that the loaded weight is often underestimated, we recommend you to leave a margin.
@ Send a request to estimate the power needed to motorize your boat
A 1 kW motor will consume 1 kWh at full power over a period of 1 hour. We will double or triple the range by reducing the speed very little .
It is good practice to start with a ratio of 1 between kW (engine power) and kWh (battery pack capacity), even if it means leaving room for future expansion. Please note that this rule applies with LIFEPO batteries. Other chemicals require a larger pack. As for AGMs, it will be necessary to foresee that they should not be discharged more than 50%.
It is possible for a small boat to bring a small portable generator of 1 or 2 KW as a precaution. Connected to the charger, it will allow you to return to port at low speed even if the batteries are empty.
An electric outboard motor is now a viable option for dinghy propulsion. Emrhys Barrell puts the latest outboards and trolling motors to the test
The electric outboard motor has been around for many years, but they have either been too low powered or their lead acid batteries have made them too heavy to lift in and out of a small tender, so petrol outboards have remained the engine of choice.
The development of lightweight lithium batteries has changed all this, making an electric outboard motor a practical alternative to petrol – and making all electric yachts a real possibility too.
With this in mind, we tested 12 models whose all-up weight, or the weight of their individual components, did not exceed the 14-17kg of a 2.5hp petrol outboard.
See how we tested the electric outboards at the end of this article.
Specifications Outboard weight: 12kg Overall weight with outboard and bracket: 14.5kg Battery capacity: 1085Wh Top speed: 5kts Thrust: 30kg / 66lbs
Designed along the lines of a dinghy rudder, this Remigo outboard is incredibly easy and intuitive to use. No external cables or anything to be snagged, it clips onto a bracket pre-mounted to your tender or dinghy, in a similar way that you’d attach a dinghy rudder.
Flip down the handle, attach the magnetic kill cord and you’re good to go.
On test this outboard gave as much thrust as the ePropulsion below but out performed it in terms of maneuverability. The Remigo can be switched from forward to reverse thrust at the touch of a button.
We like the Remigo for it’s sleek simplicity. If you want a clean smart easy to carry outboard to take you from your mooring to shore or quietly meander from your anchorage to shore then this is definitely worth considering.
We especially liked the rudder effect of this outboard giving us steerage even we had turn the power completely off to coast in alongside our pontoon.
Read Fox Morgan’s review of this outboard – Remigo One Electric Outboard review
Reasons to buy
very easy to stow, innovative rudder design, lightweight, built in battery, easy to mount and dismount
Reasons to avoid
No multiple battery swap options like more conventional electric outboards
Find a dealer at Silent Yachting
Photo: Paul Wyeth
Yachting Monthly’s best buy
Specifications Motor weight: 10.5kg Battery weight: 9kg Battery capacity: 1276Wh Top speed RIB: 4.5mph Top speed skiff: 6.0mph Thrust: 31kg/68lbs
The Chinese firm ePropulsion has been developing its electric outboard motor range and lithium batteries for some time. We tested the Spirit 1.0 Plus and Evo, both 1kW motors with integral batteries.
Clearly ePropulsion was influenced by Torqeedo, but there are some important differences. From the outset ePropulsion went for a direct drive motor, being quieter and avoiding gearbox problems.
The battery has a greater capacity than the original Torqeedo, and is still 30% higher than the latest version. It also floats – useful if you should drop it overboard.
Fitting the battery is a two-handed job, with the carrying handle being at the back, and latch lock at the front, which requires leaning over the transom to install it. You also cannot see the locating slots underneath, which isn’t quite so easy in a bobbing inflatable. The power cable socket is protected by a rubber cap.
You have a display, but it only shows power being consumed, voltage, and remaining runtime, which means it has larger figures, easier to read on a sunny day, but it lacks GPS speed or range.
It has the same trim settings as the Torqeedo, with a similar fiddly retaining split ring. It also has a magnetic kill cord. Three shaft lengths are available, catering for transom heights up to 61cm. The shaft is streamlined but rotates through 360º for maximum manoeuvrability and reverse.
High battery capacity Quiet 360º rotation
Limited display options
Buy it now from epropulsion
Yachting Monthly’s best in class
Specifications Motor weight: 10.5kg Battery weight: 9kg Battery capacity: 1276Wh Top speed RIB: 4.5mph Top speed skiff: 6.0mph Thrust: 68lbs Regeneration: 4 knots – 40W / 10 knots – 300W
The 1.0 EVO has the same dimensions and performance as the Spirit, but it has the options of a removable tiller, plus remote controls and steering, but the real innovation is that it offers regenerative charging while you are sailing, putting 40W at 4 knots, and 300W at 10 knots back into the battery.
You can even have a wristband remote for steering and throttle.
The ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 EVO is undeniably more expensive than it’s little sister without the regenerative charging and the cost difference is significant. If you are likely to be doing a lot of sailing and using your electric motor from ship-to-shore in relatively remote locations then the regeneration will probably be worth it. For most, though the price differential is probably a little too steep.
Regenerative charging Removable tille Remote controls
Relatively expensive
Torqeedo 603 specifications Motor weight: 11kg Battery weight: 4.2kg (floats) Battery capacity: 500Wh Top speed RIB: 4.0 mph Top speed skiff: Not tested Thrust: 44lbs
Torqeedo 1103 specifications Motor weight: 11kg Battery weight: 6kg Battery capacity: 915Wh Top speed RIB: 4.4mph Top speed skiff: 6.0mph Thrust: 68lbs
Torqeedo was the first company to commercially produce an outboard with an integral lithium battery in 2005. The earliest motors used a high-revving geared motor, which produced a characteristic whine. Following the launch of its new larger battery, Torqeedo changed to direct drive at about the same time that ePropulsion arrived on the scene.
The 1103 is 1.1kW and has a removable battery and tiller/throttle. The battery locates in slots in the powerhead and can be dropped in one-handed, with the slots clearly visible from above, which is helpful in a rocking dinghy. It then hinges back and locks in place with a separate plastic pin. The tiller locates in similar slots.
The two are then connected to the motor by a power cable and a data cable, but the latter has an 8mm plug, with five tiny pins that have to be carefully lined up, then secured with a threaded plastic collar. Neither of the sockets have caps to prevent debris or water getting into them when the cables are not connected.
The display on the tiller shows four lines of data at the same time, which makes them small to read (a phone app can be used for a large display). They include volts, battery capacity, range at a given speed, speed in kts, mph or km/h, and power consumption in watts. A magnetic kill-cord cuts the power circuits if you fall overboard.
The motor has four trim positions to allow for angled transoms, but the split ring securing the locking pin is very stiff and fiddly, especially when you have to adjust it hanging over the transom. A side-mounted lever allows the motor to be tilted horizontally. In normal use a catch prevents the motor kicking up in reverse, but this can be released with another side-mounted lever if you are in shallow water.
Long and short shaft versions are available, with the height of the transom to the top of the prop on the long shaft being 62cm. Clamps screws and fittings are stainless steel, making it suitable for salt water use, but an anode is an extra. It has forward and reverse but not 360º rotation.
Established brand with relatively long history Removable battery and tiller Lots of display options
Display hard to read
Buy the Torqeedo 603 now from Torqeedo Buy the Torqeedo 1103 now from Torqeedo
Specifications Motor weight: 11kg Battery weight: 5kg Battery capacity: 600Wh Top speed: RIB 4.0mph Top speed skiff: Not tested Thrust: 51lbs
Haswing is a new name to us, but this Chinese manufacturer now has an extensive range of motors, several of which we were able to bring along to our test.
The Ultima 3 has an integral Lithium battery and an output of 1,000W, with the ‘3’ in its name indicating the 3hp petrol outboard its makers claim it is equivalent to. The battery is 600Wh.
The battery was the easiest of all in our test to fit and remove, just sliding down a set of grooves, with contacts in the bottom removing the need for any linking cables or wires, and an easy one-handed operation.
The unit is well engineered, with stainless steel used throughout plus an anode as standard, making this suitable for use in salt water, and a spare anode and shear pin. The tiller/throttle hinges up and down for easy operation and storage. It has a streamlined aluminium leg, but rotates 360º.
A magnetic kill cord is a useful safety feature, and there are 5 LEDs showing battery capacity remaining, but this is the only instrumentation, so there is no way of gauging how much power you are using. It also meant that with no exposed power cables, we could not measure intermediate power settings.
Easy to fit battery Anode as standard for salt water usage High end materials
Limited instrumentation
Buy it now from Amazon
Specifications Motor weight: 9.1kg Battery (Sterling 60Ah) – 8kg Battery capacity: 780Wh Top speed RIB: 3.2mph Top speed skiff: 4.0mph Thrust: 28lbs
Another trolling motor, this has a claimed 40lb thrust and a variable speed electronic control. The throttle pulls forward for ahead, and pushes back for reverse then twists in the same direction for speed. A clever feature once you get used to it. Ten LEDs show the battery state.
The sliding shaft gives transom heights up to 65cm transom to prop, and 360º rotation. It also quickly tilts through 90º, with 5 positions, for shallow or weedy water.
Clamp screws and fittings are mild steel, meaning you should wash it off with freshwater after using it in the sea.
Clever throttle control Variable transom heights accomodated
Quite basic in functionality
Yachting Monthly’s best budget buy
Specifications Motor weight: 9kg Battery weight: (Sterling 60Ah) 8kg Battery capacity: 780Wh Top speed RIB: 3.3mph Top speed skiff: 4.4mph Thrust: 35lbs
This is another trolling motor with a claimed 55lb thrust, but with five forward speeds and three reverse on a twist-grip throttle. Again, it is a well-engineered motor, with all fittings and clamp screws made of stainless steel, an anode behind the prop and a spare in the box.
Five LEDs show the battery state. The sliding shaft gives transom heights up to 62cm, and 10 tilt positions.
As with all click-speed throttles you have double the power at Setting 5 compared to Setting 4, and very poor range figures at intermediate speeds compared to motors with electronic throttles.
However it is an excellent value-for- money option for sailors looking for ways to power their tender for short trip
Well engineered Value for money
Poor range at medium speeds
Specifications Motor weight: 13kg Battery weight: 16kg Battery capacity: 1,560Wh Top speed RIB: 4.0mph Top speed skiff: 5.5mph
Motorguide is a well-established US company that is part of the Mercury/Mariner group. The most powerful of the transom mount range, the 82 has a claimed thrust of 82lbs, and is a 24V unit requiring two 12V batteries in series.
It is also designed for saltwater use, with stainless steel clamp screws and fittings, and a large anode on the shaft. It has an extra long shaft, giving up to 93cm transom height to the prop, 360º rotation, and seven tilt positions There are no battery LEDs. An on/off switch under the control head is the nearest it gets to a kill switch.
Well known company Powerful Anode for salt water
No battery LEDs
Specifications Motor weight: 9kg Battery weight: 8kg Battery capacity: 780Wh Top speed RIB: 3.4mph Top speed skiff: 4.5mph Thrust: 40lbs
Another Haswing requiring a separate 12V battery, this has a variable speed electronic throttle, and similar features to the Protruar 5, except no kill cord. It claims to be equivalent to a 1hp petrol motor, but in practice delivered 600W.
The sliding shaft only allows transom heights up to 40cm, but a longer shaft version is available. It has 10 tilt positions and 360º rotation.
Another well engineered unit, with stainless steel used throughout plus an anode as standard, and a spare anode and shear pin. The tiller/throttle hinges up and down for easy operation and storage.
Anode for salt water use 360º rotation
No kill chord Limited transom height range
Specifications Motor weight: 14kg Battery weight: 16kg Battery capacity: 1,560Wh Top speed RIB: Not tested Top speed skiff: 6.1mph Thrust: 108lbs
Another Haswing, the Protruar 5 is the most powerful model we tested. The unit is extremely well engineered, with stainless steel used throughout for the clamp screws and fittings, plus an anode as standard, making this suitable for use in salt water. A nice touch is the spare anode and shear pin in the kit. The tiller/throttle hinges up and down for easy operation and storage.
Its 5 designation indicates its makers think it is equivalent to a 5hp petrol motor, but in reality it delivers around 2.5kW at 24V so requires two separate batteries. It has a variable electronic throttle, three battery state LEDS and a magnetic kill cord.
The shaft slides up and down, giving a maximum transom height of 62cm and 360º rotation. Ten tilt positions are quickly engaged by a squeeze lever.
The thrust was the highest of the test, making it suitable for heavy boats, but the fine pitch prop significantly reduced its efficiency at speed.
Powerful model Anode for salt water use Battery LEDs and kill chord
Needs two batteries for full power
Specifications Motor weight: 9.5kg Battery weight: (Sterling 60Ah) 8kg Battery capacity: 780Wh Top speed RIB: not tested Top speed skiff: 4.1mph
This trolling motor has a claimed thrust of 45lbs and five forward speeds. The sliding shaft gives transom heights up to 65cm and 360º rotation, with seven tilt positions. Clamp screws and fittings are mild steel, so should be washed after saltwater use.
The click-speed throttle gives non-linear power gaps, with Speed Setting 5 being double the power of Setting 4. This throttle arrangement results in poor range figures at medium speeds compared to motors with electronic throttles, but it keeps the price down.
360º rotation Plenty of transom height range
Specifications Motor weight: 9.5kg Battery weight: (Sterling 60Ah) 8kg Battery capacity: 780Wh Top speed skiff: 4.6mph
Minn Kota is one of the oldest makers of trolling motors. The Max 55 has a claimed 55lb thrust, with a variable speed electronic twist-grip throttle.
Clamp screws and fittings are mild steel, making it best suited for freshwater, though you can use it in the sea if you wash it off afterwards.
It has a fine pitch prop like all trolling motors, which gives a good static thrust, but efficiency, and hence range, falls off at higher speeds, though the electronic Maximiser throttle helps to offset this.
Electronic maximiser throttle helps offset range issues
Big range drop off at high speeds Needs washing after salt water usage
Buy it now from MinnKota
We took a selection of electric outboard motor units available on the market, and tested them in two situations, firstly on a Frib 275 folding RIB on the Lymington River to reproduce the situation of getting out to your boat in the tender. We then put them on a 4m skiff on the Thames, to see how they perform at higher speeds on a boat with a smoother underwater form and longer waterline on sheltered waters.
Speed: We measured speed using a handheld GPS, and electricity consumed using a clamp ammeter or the motor’s inbuilt power display. We converted these to the range you would achieve, either for a given power, or the full power of the motor’s battery.
Thrust: We measured static thrust using a spring balance. This is a somewhat crude test, as it measures the pulling power of a motor in a static boat, and therefore doesn’t allow the propeller pitch to work at its designed speed.
Function: We checked the stated weights of each of the motors and made a qualitative survey of their main features when used as a dinghy outboard.
We tested the trolling motors with a 60Ah lithium battery from Sterling Power, which cost £360, though you can use a heavier lead acid battery costing around £120 for a good quality AGM or gel. Don’t bother with leisure batteries, which will fail after 4 to 5 trips. You will need a good quality Lithium charger, which will add on £100 or more.
We haven’t included charging in this test, as this is dependent on the charger you are using, whether you are charging from 240V or 12V on board, and whether the power source is mains, a generator, alternator or solar. It’s worth noting that you will rarely be recharging from flat, and will rather be aiming to top up batteries after each use.
The options today are trolling motors with separate batteries – so called because they were mainly used as auxiliary slow-speed power for anglers, and integral-battery motors built for dinghy propulsion. These are the options a sailor will be looking at when thinking about changing to an electric outboard.
Trolling motors are still popular for low-speed applications, as they are simple and cheap, but they do need a separate 12V battery.
The integral battery motors are sophisticated units designed to give you more speed and greater range for a given power in a small boat, though for any 3-4m boat, the hull speed will limit how fast you can realistically go with any motor unless you start planing.
An electric outboard motor with an integral battery will often include displays showing speed, range at a given speed, and percentage of battery capacity remaining, but these features come with a higher price tag.
The trolling motors and integral battery models in our test were similar in weight and both come in at around the same total weight as a 2.5hp petrol engine.
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It’s no secret that we’re approaching, or have maybe even passed the moment in history where most buyers are considering buying an electric vehicle. The awkward early adopter phase is long gone, doubters few and far between, and every car manufacturer has at least some EV options, while others focus exclusively on electric and are experiencing massive growth. Mass adoption is here, the prices are falling, and infrastructure and legislature are hurrying to catch up.
All of this has left many people wondering why not bring sailing boats into the electric world? Sailing was never about motoring, never about engine speed – it is about that connection to nature, the serenity of the sea and the challenge. So why not get rid of the “dirty and loud” diesel engine, and simply exchange it for “clean and quiet” electric propulsion? Motor out of the marina or bay in silence, then use the sun, wind and waves to continue your journey.
Well – it turns out that like all good things in life, it’s not that simple, but it can be completely viable if approached correctly, and Elan and Oceanvolt have partnered-up to offer just that.
EARLY ADOPTER PHASE
Unlike the automobile industry, electric-powered yachting is still in the early adopter phase. That is why picking experienced manufacturers is crucial. Elan Yachts, for instance, had built various highly successful projects with Oceanvolt in the past and were part of the pioneering few boatbuilders to take on the challenge. The partnership flourished and matured so that Elan is now working exclusively with Oceanvolt and has extended the offer to their whole range of yachts. But what does being an early adopter mean for the buyer? Mostly that the technology is here, but the price is high. For a well-rounded, high-quality and reliable system, you can expect to pay 20-30% more than a comparable diesel-powered sailing yacht. And since a large part of that cost is for the batteries, do not expect that to change very soon as the demand for Lithium-ion batteries is only increasing.
FOR SERIOUS SAILORS
However, let’s assume that the price is not a problem. You want to be among the first few with a zero-emissions yacht – no noise, no exhaust, no smell and no environmental restrictions. You want to sail without the use of fossil fuels. You want the famous instant power output benefits of electricity in emergency situations, no engine rev settling, no pre-start waiting and low maintenance costs. You want to use the wind and the sun to re-charge. All of these are actual benefits of electric yacht propulsion, but what are the downsides? For committed sailors, there are not many. The operating range of high-end electric propulsion systems like the one from Oceanvolt is from 25 to 70 miles at 5 knots (and more, depending on the battery pack options and power generation), which is more than enough to get you in and out of marinas and bays and still have plenty left over to get you out of a bind. The rest, you sail. And if the yacht is fast, the winds are fair and you achieve 5 knots or more, Oceanvolt’s hydrogeneration kicks in and generates power for recharging the battery bank. Hydrogeneration creates drag of only 0.1 knot at a boat speed of 7.0 knots – so it is barely noticeable. If you can go even faster, the power generation increases exponentially (see GRAPH 1).
GRAPH 1: Elan E4 Power generation prediction
(Source: Oceanvolt)
LIVING ABOARD
Buying an electric-powered yacht is still far from an off-the-shelf experience. You need a trusted team of specialists who will guide you through the process and make sure they create a custom solution according to your needs and a good partnership between the shipyard and the electric propulsion provider is crucial. Why is this so different from a car? A yacht is an independent element on the sea and, unlike a car, it will need to provide its owner with much more than just propulsion. It is imperative therefore to consider everything, from the way the yacht is built to the equipment on board. Since you will spend most of your time sailing, you need a yacht that performs well and is easy to sail. A good, reliable sail plan and rig, like the one on Elan yachts, will give you enough options to substitute the practicality of a diesel engine. Elan’s VAIL technology keeps the weight down, its short-handed sailing approach and comfort-centric design will keep you comfortable even when sailing for longer periods, and the high-end electronics are designed to keep consumption low. That is crucial because you will need to bear in mind cooking, refrigeration, water and cabin heating and entertainment, as well as the availability of ports/marinas with good electrical infrastructure. Of course, there are fossil fuel solutions for all these challenges, and Elan’s and Oceanvolt’s partnership offers a hybrid option with a 48V DC generator, which is very practical, if on the pricier side. Purists, however, will want to go full electric. And for them, more renewable power generation options like photovoltaics, a wind generator or a humbler approach to on-board living will be crucial, especially in colder climates. Bear in mind that experienced shipyards like Elan Yachts will be able to provide a complete solution, including solar panel procurement and installation.
POWER OPTIONS
How powerful are electric motors on sailboats? Well, Oceanvolt offers two different propulsion systems. The Finland-based company has developed a 6, 8, 10 and 15kW SD saildrive, as well as a special 10 and 15kW ServoProp with even better hydrogeneration, thanks to its patented and DAME-awarded software-controlled propeller blades, which change pitch to generate as much power as possible. Depending on the yacht, the entry-level SD saildrive enables 5 knots of cruising speed and a top speed of 7 knots on the 30 ft Elan E3. Bear in mind that power consumption and speed is inverse in relation to power generation – as you go faster, you consume exponentially more power (see GRAPH 2) The good part is that the motor and the saildrive weigh only 42.5 kg, which offsets some of the battery weight. In addition, all of the motors are all closed-circuit liquid-cooled, so there is no annoying spluttering.
GRAPH 2 : Elan E3 RANGE PREDICTION
Source: (Oceanvolt)
Want to go electric?
Get in touch with Elan Yachts, and request the configuration of your ideal electric-powered sailboat. Elan is the only yacht manufacturer offering complete electric propulsion solution for the whole range of yachts. Contact our experts, build an energy balance sheet for your needs and your new Elan, taking into account the type of sailing, the environment, living habits and other possible criteria, to create the optimal setup.
Gt line luxury performance.
Get in touch.
Electric outboard motors have got a lot of attention these days: It is silent, clean, and maintenance-free with NO fuel or exhaust smells.
With the hype of high power electric outboard motors, it seems that the electric outboard motors now offer a viable alternative to combustion motors, making it a great option for many boats including kayaks, dinghies, canoe, inflatables, and sailboats.
But the electric outboard price might again put you in a dilemma.
Is the electric outboard motor worth the upfront investment? What’s the range and runtime of electric outboards? What’s the most powerful electric outboard motor available and affordable today?
In this post, we are going to walk through all information about the electric outboard motors for boats and help you select the best electric outboard that fits your needs.
Table of content:
Editor’s Note: Electric outboard motors as well as other electric vehicles are measured by W (watts) instead of hp (horsepower). So if you are looking for a 3 HP electric outboard motor, it should be a 1000 W outboard that has an equivalent power of a 3 HP petrol motor.
In order to help you better understand the power range of electric outboard motors especially for those who are new to the electric motors, we will just use HP to describe the power of electric outboards in this post.
Before we get into depth, let’s make it clear that here we are talking about electric outboard motors. Not trolling motors or electric start combustion outboards.
Unlike the trolling motors (measured in static thrust) that can only go at slow trolling speed, true electric outboard motors can provide much higher power: They are designed to be used as the primary power source.
Even small electric outboards, for example, the popular 3hp electric outboard motor, would be enough to power boats weighing up to 1.5 tons including dinghy boats, inflatables, and small sailboats, at a speed of 5 knots (conditions apply).
If you have no idea which one to choose between electric outboard motor and trolling motor (like the Minn Kota motors), check out our previous post for a detailed comparison.
The electric outboard motor is definitely appealing but the flooded information on the Internet could be overwhelming and get you lost especially if you are new to electric boating.
Here I have rounded up the top 5 frequently asked questions (with quick answers) so that you can easily decide whether to get an electric outboard motor for your boat.
Curious to know what sort of battery life and range the electric outboard motors get in a marine environment. “I don’t want to run out of charge on the water.”
This is the proverbial piece of string question.
The electric outboard motor runtime and range depend on how fast you run it, how heavy the boat is, how much tide is running in which direction, the battery charge state, the temperature… and more factors still.
Generally speaking, with the Spirit 1.0 Plus 3 hp electric outboard at half power you should get 13.3 miles or 21.3 km.
Most electric boat motors will allow you to adjust it to a slower speed for extra range and runtime. Plus you can always read the battery level/estimated range left on the screen, so you’ll never get stuck.
Here is a table that shows the estimated range and runtime of the 9.9 hp electric outboard at different speed levels with a single charge of one battery.
Electric Outboard Motors Range, Runtime & Speed
500 | 4 | 18:00 | 72 |
1000 | 5 | 9:00 | 45 |
2000 | 6.7 | 4:30 | 30.2 |
3000 | 8 | 3:00 | 24 |
4000 | 11.5 | 2:15 | 25.9 |
5000 | 13.5 | 1:50 | 24.7 |
6000 | 15 | 1:30 | 22.5 |
*Data collected from ePropulsion Navy 6.0 Evo electric outboard motor on a 12 ft aluminum boat (with exclusive ePropulsion E175 battery that’s 8960 Wh) with one person on boat in calm lake water.
Check the full test report of the Navy 6.0 electric outboard motor.
So how fast are electric boat motors?
The max speed of electric outboard motors varies greatly between different boats and working environments. The higher power, the higher speed.
Below you will find a selection of real-world test reports using the ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 electric outboard motor in a selection of different styles of the boat.
West Marine RU-250 Roll-Up Inflatable Boat | 4.5 | |
RS 21 Sailboat | 5.5 | |
Csónaképítő e.BALIN Túra | 6.2 | |
Liteboat LiteXP | 6.1 |
Want a higher power electric outboard to keep your boat at a higher speed?
It’s still a great challenge for today’s technology. Just as I mentioned above, the electric outboard motors need a large battery capacity to keep a high speed.
The amount of battery power needed to move a boat is like 10x more than a motor vehicle.
Let’s say you can go at 5 knots with a 10 hp electric outboard motor. And if you want to speed up to 15 knots, you will probably need a 100 hp electric outboard, and that requires much more energy and battery than we can imagine and will cost a fortune.
That’s why the electric outboard motors under 20hp (3hp/4hp/5hp/10hp motors) are still the mainstream in the consumer market.
Electric outboards are interesting but I don’t understand why they cost more than a petrol outboard.
Think about the challenges of battery size vs range in electric outboard motors:
The electric outboard boat motor needs a large battery capacity especially if you are planning for a long trip.
Given that the batteries have lower energy density compared to petrol and a boat is around 5 to 10 times less efficient in energy economy compared to a similar weight car, you’ll need a lot of energy (i.e. batteries) stored on the electric outboard motor to push the boat along.
And the batteries are expensive.
Another reason is that the economies of scale have not kicked in yet within the industry although the electric outboard motors are getting more and more popular these days.
An exception:
Actually the 3 hp electric outboard motor outperforms the petrol outboard on price (and virtually any functionality you could care about for a boat outboard) if you take the maintenance fee ($180/year, if you dont service it you lose warranty) and fuel/electricity cost into account.
Take ePropulsion Spirit Plus , the 3 hp electric outboard motor with a built-in battery, for example:
That’s to say, with electric outboard motor Spirit 1.0 Plus, it’s only 3 years before the saving start. And as the service time increases, you could even save more.
So actually the electric outboard motors are a cost-effective option within a few years of use.
Notice: You might be in the market of the used electric outboard motor and looking for one during special sales or on the deals website. But it is not recommended to go this way as those electric outboard motors for sale might not guarantee your full warranty.
The good news is that most electric outboard motors can be fully charged overnight. So it’s convenient and won’t impede your schedule.
Some reputable electric outboard motor manufacturers like ePropulsion also feature quick charging that can cut down the charging time in half.
Solar charging is also possible, you can discharge and charge the battery at the same time meaning you can extend the range of your boat on sunny days
Extra tip: If you are a sailing enthusiast, be sure to check out the electric outboard motors that come with hydrogeneration, like the ePropulsion Evo Series . It takes advantage of the wind energy to charge its batteries while sailing, so you can have extra power for an extended range of sailing or charging other facilities on board.
Check out how the hydrogeneration works on sailing with Captain Rick Moore (starting from 7:48).
The electric outboard motor and battery weight could be a concern, especially for the elderly. Boating is enjoyable, but lugging the heavy batteries over boggy ground to get to a boat in remote areas is definitely not tempting.
If you are looking for a portable electric outboard motor, consider the one with a built-in battery. The electric outboard motor with battery is easy to transport and could save you a lot of trouble.
Some electric outboard motor batteries can even float in the water so there is no need to worry about dropping it while installing the outboard.
Looking for a higher power electric outboard motor?
It will need standalone batteries to power the electric outboard. If you are going this way, we’d recommend looking at the E-Series LiFePO4 battery range.
The E-series electric outboard motor batteries offer a modular system from 2048 Wh to 8960 Wh. They are very affordable marine-grade batteries with a long lifespan.
Are electric outboard motors any good?
The benefit of electric outboard motors is obvious to anglers and almost overwhelming to those who are looking for a premium boating experience.
Check out the top 4 reasons why hundreds of thousands of people go for electric outboards.
With more regions and lakes banning the use of combustion motors, electric outboard motors have become the only option for some anglers and boating enthusiasts. It is a new trend and could be the future of boating.
Electric outboard motors could also work as a secondary engine (kicker, auxiliary engine). A lot of users also find it helpful in emergencies if the main motor breaks.
Having been toying with buying an electric outboard motor for a while but had no idea which outboard motor is the most reliable? What’s the best electric outboard motor?
Here are top 2 recommendations trusted by dozens of thousands of users worldwide.
If you are looking for a reliable, affordable, and portable electric outboard motor for the dinghy, inflatable and fishing boats, sailboats, and tenders, the Spirit 1.0 Plus is your best choice.
This electric outboard motor with a built-in battery provides 3 hp equivalent horsepower and can go up to 22 miles at 4.5 mph, or keep running all day long at trolling speed.
Highlights:
As an electric outboard motor for saltwater and freshwater, the Spirit is durable and efficient to be used in the lake, marine, and simply any kind of environment.
Check out how the Spirit performs in the water on this genuine electric outboard motor review:
For advanced hydrogeneration capacity, check out the Spirit 1.0 Evo . You will love it on sailing.
If you want a higher power electric outboard motor for dinghies, aluminum fishing boats, daysailers, and cruising sailboats, be sure to check out the ePropulsion Navy 6.0 outboard.
With this 6kw 9.9 (10) HP electric outboard motor, you can easily go 40 miles within one charge, or go fishing all day at trolling speed.
Check out what users have to say about the Navy 6.0 electric outboard motor:
Want to learn more about the product and get advice on purchase? Fill in this quick form within 3 minutes, and we will get in touch shortly.
A single post could not answer all questions about the electric outboards. We’ve picked out the most frequently asked ones below with short answers.
If you have any further confusion about the electric outboard motors, leave them in the comment and we’ll get back to you asap and add yours to the list.
#1. How rock proof are electric outboards?
The electric outboard motor blade is usually made of solid materials and ePropulsion motors feature propeller collision emergency stop
However, the rock or oyster bed could still possibly cause damage to the motor. If you are worried, you can always protect the outboard with some propeller guard.
#2. What is the most powerful electric outboard motor?
The most powerful electric outboard motor by far is 80 hp rated, and it is mostly for commercial use due to the high initial cost.
#3. What size electric outboard do I need?
To get the right size electric outboard motor, you need to consider the boat size (weight/length), boatload, your desired speed, and the boating environment, etc.
Generally speaking, a 1kw3hp electric outboard motor is enough to provide a satisfying speed and range for tenders, dinghies, and daysailers up to 1.5 tons, and 6kw10 hp electric outboard motor is for RIBs, fishing boats, and cruising sailboats up to 6 tons.
With the unbeatable advantages like quietness, clean, exhaust-free, and the lower overall cost with a few years of use, electric outboard motors are gaining more popularity over time.
You will see more and more electric outboard motors for sailboats, kayak, canoe, and dinghy boats on sale and in use for the upcoming years, especially with the push of the government.
If you’re interested but not sure what type and size of electric outboard motor suits you best, leave us a message on the comments and we’ll try our best to help you find the best pick.
If you are looking for an electric outboard motor in the UK, US, NZ, Canada, Australia, or any other regions worldwide, and want a quick delivery, you may check out the local dealers and order directly from them with solid support if there is an issue coming up.
What recommendations can you make to lock the motor, especially the battery since it’s easy to remove when docked?
Hi delanovr, you can use a motor lock to secure the outboard. As for the battery, it’s lightweight making it easy to uninstall and remove when not in use.
A chain and padlock through battery handle and around the lock would also help to secure both. Feel free to let me know if you have any further question.
I have a 16′ pontoon (Tahoe) with Minnkota e-drive. 4-4.5 mph. Would like a bit more speed. 7-8 mph. What would you suggest?
Hi Bob, you may take a look at the Navy 6.0 Evo for your application https://www.epropulsion.com/navy/
What electric motor would be best for a 12′ Aluminum boat?
Hello dsrtcrttr, it’s actually depends on many factors including your desired speed, boat load (gear and passengers), and the boating environment. Could you offer more details about your application of the aluminum boat?
You may also check out our test data with similar sized aluminum boat and see if the performance meets your needs on this page https://www.epropulsion.com/performance-bulletins
Hope the information helps!
I have a 10 foot Bass buster or a 2 person Pelican . Do have a trolling motor . Question is what size of electric outboard motor do I need ? Have read your information on this site but still need help . New on boat . Would like a 3.5 electric but still need your advice . Will appreciate all the help you can give me Thank you ,
Hello Fermin, the 3 hp Spirit 1.0 Plus is a great choice for your situation. Check out our test date with Spirit motor on a smiliar boat here:
https://0220afca-6e42-4f45-a99f0362b314126d.filesusr.com/ugd/77b59c_c8de34d4bc7e4077b1865462e7a614d7.pdf
Please feel free to let me know if you have any further question
I have a 16 ft 4 person skiff to cruise around the river. Will the 3 hp electric motor push us for 4 hours of cruising? The whole river is “slow no wake”
Hi Neil, the actual running time is largely depend on your speed requirement and the boat load. Could you provide more information on that?
According to our test, our 3hp electric motor Spirit 1.0 can run for 4 hours at 4.4mph on a 14ft boat. And if you reduce the speed to 3.5mph, it can last for 8 hours.
I have a 14’ speed type boat with 50hp but was thinking electric for emergency back up?
Hi John, yes, the electric outboard can be great backup for your speed boat.
Happy new year!!!
could i use a small gas generator with a convertor to 12 v ?
Hi Tom, you may use our Spirit 12 V charger ( https://www.epropulsion.com/product-page/spirit-1-0-dc-charger-12v-24v/ ) to charge the Spirit battery directly from 12 v power source.
The bigger the wave, the more support you need from your beginner surfboard. Be sure to check out the trucks to see if you want a set that has wider and deeper “tubes” for the “wave” you’re planning on riding.
I have a 13′ Saturn kaboat (inflatable). Is the outboard or pod option better for us? The boat can hold about 900 lbs and we take up 550 of that.
Hi Barb, it would be better to use an outboard for inflatable boats as it’s easier to install and doesn’t require drilling a hole on the boat. Feel free to let me know if you have any additional questions.
Hi – I’ve got a 2500pound (1.25t) multihull sailboat. Don’t have a lot of room and want to keep the weight down. Which outboard would you recomend? Thanks!
The ePropulsion Pod Drive Series ( https://www.epropulsion.com/pod-drive/ ) is a better fit for you since it is designed for space-saving applications.
As for the horsepower recommendation, if you are using it as auxiliary power source like entering and existing a marina, the 1 kw Pod Drive 3.0 would be enough for you. And if you are looking for a more powerful motor, check out the 3 kw Pod Drive 6.0 Evo.
Hope the information helps and feel free to let me know if you have any furthur questions 🙂
I have read that the ESpirit 1.0 can be charged from a 12v source or solar panels. I cannot find any technical details about the 12V DC/solar control charger. Does the charger run off mains voltage supply? I have two 240v/12v 20A multistage chargers. Is it possible to charge the motor from those chargers connected in parallel (i.e. 40A maximum charge rate)? Do I also need the Eprop charger?
Hi Crispy, you will need the ePropulsion 12V charger due to the different connector and configured charging parameters.
I have 3 x 100W solar panels producing 57V. Does the charger also run off solar input at 57V?
Hi Crispy, the input voltage of solar panel should be ≤ 35V for the Spirit solar charger controller.
For more information about the ePropulsion solar charging, you can check out our ePropulsion Solar Charger Manual that’s available for download at our download center.
Hope this helps and let me know if you have any other questions.
I got wilderness atak 140. I make custom e motor and battery for it from cheap 360Wt trolling motor. Now i got about 5knots speed at 13V. Wanna chage it to get at least 8knots at full speed and need very low speed for fishing about 0.2knots. have u any modofications for intalling motor on kayaks?
Need electric outboard shot shaft with peddle control or rote
Hi Jack, did you mean the short shaft outboard with peddle or remote control? If yes, I would like to recommende the Spirit 1.0 Evo Remote which can be controlled remotely with a top mount or side mount control and allows for helm steering. It couldn’t be easier 🙂 Please feel free to let me know if you have further questions.
Hi Friends! What motor is recommended for a wood canoe that weight near 1 ton and full loaded 2.5 tons, normally we use 40-48hp, our daily tour is 8 hours roundtrip full power, important 1.30hours of rapids, waiting for a prompt answer, regards..
Hi there, ePropulsion’s outboard motor range is between 3-9.9HP, do you have any speed requirements? If we solely consider weights, Navy 3.0 or 6.0 Evo would be the choice of 2.5 full-loaded canoes. 8 hours of run time requirement should depend on the battery capacity and running speed.
Ment short shaft ….10 ft boat with steering wheel
Hi Jack, you may want to check out the Spirit 1.0 Remote short shaft version. It has 24.6 inches short shaft length and allows remote helm steering. For more information, please visit https://www.epropulsion.com/spirit-evo/
How many charge cycles can the battery take before it starts to lose capacity? What is the battery chemistry? What safety features are incorporated? Is it safe to use in hot climates (ex: the Mediterranean in Summer)?
For the ePropulsion Spirit Evo model, the cycle life of its Lithium-Polymer type of battery is ≥500 cycles (80% of Rated Capacity), and it’s recommended to be used at temperatures under 40 ℃. You may find more information on the user manual at our download center https://www.epropulsion.com/download-center/
Is it possible to have an idea of the prices of the various models please? In my country the “closest dealer” is a yacht-focused business and since I only have a small wooden boat I would prefer to have an idea of the price so I can at least check if the dealer has applied a fair mark-up. I have a small (but heavy) 14 foot wooden (plywood) boat that does not plane since it is based on a sailing boat design (with a small keel and a transom that leans back but has a place to mount the motor perpendicular to the sea). My main interest would therefore be the 3HP equivalent model. Thanks.
Hello John, may I know where you are located please?
I have a 40’ power boat that I use for trolling for salmon. It’s a 30,000 lb twin diesel boat. The problem is it trolls too fast even with one engine and I have an inflatable boat on the swim grid that takes up space. I was wondering if I used an electric outboard to move my boat 2-3mph would be excellent. I have large battery capacity and generator if needed. Are the electric outboards as heavy as gas powered? Compact? Thx
Hi Lee, the 9.9HP Navy 6.0 should be able to move your boat at desired speed. However there are many other factors come into play that may affect its performances. You may fill up this form and schedule a test ride with your local dealer to see whether it can satisfy your needs: https://epropulsion.typeform.com/dealer-contact Thanks!
Are there solar/wind charger options for the Navy 3.0/6.0? I see that it is mentioned on the Spirit (keenly interested).
Kindest regards,
Hi Donner, it depends on the batteries you are using together with the Navy 3.0/6.0. The ePropulsion E-Series battery can be charged with 3rd party solar panels. And the new Navy Evo models allow hydrogeneration.
To charge the ePropulsion E-Series Battery with only 3rd party solar panels, users need to set the solar charger float voltage to 57.6V. Meanwhile, the solar charger maximum discharge current needs to be less than 20A/40A/75A for the E40/E80/E175 battery collectively. Otherwise, the E-Series Battery would not be charged.
For more information about hydrogeneration and solar charging, you may visit our FAQ center https://www.epropulsion.com/support-center/
Hi i have a 21feet fast cruiser boat, with no engine,and wondering,if i can use the navy 6,as my very main propulsion.Will it be strong enough to move my boat happily ??Thanks
Will the navy 6 kw 10hp,move my 21feet fast hull power boat, their is no engines inside, Will like to use the navy 6 as my very MAIN PROPULSION.THANKS
Hi Achilleas, may I know what speed you are looking for with the Navy 6.0?
Hi have a 26ft 1800kg racing sail boat only sail on a large lake so no tides or big waves I was wondering if the 3hp would suffice in just getting us out of the marina with a speed limit of 3kts with a run time of about 40mins .
Hi, 3HP can only pushes boats up to 1.5 metric tonnes… we would recommend a 6HP like Navy 3.0 Evo.
I have a Stealth Stalker 10 , 10’ long &78#, that I would like to use in the San Pablo Bay which has winds and tides. The boat can use up to 4.5 hp. Any plans for an electric that size in the near future? Do you think the Spirit 1.0 would push this boat in the tides well enough? I read about the solar, but can you use an additional wet cell battery as a backup? Thanks.
Hi, the static thrust of the Spirit 1.0 is 316 N / 71 lbs, which is sufficient for pushing the Stealth Stalker 10 in the tides. However, we recommend ePropulsion brand dry cells batteries to have smooth and accurate access to the battery status.
Great Article! Have a question…I am considering buying an Elco 14 long shaft to put on my 18 ft pontoon boat. Just want to putt around a small lake, Elco says I need to wire 4 Deep cycle batteries in series to produce th required 48 volts to power the motor. They sell deep cycle batteries but they are very expensive. Can you use just regular old marine deep cycle batteries in series or do you have to use the special expensive ones?
Hi, for selecting the battery please refer to the user manual on page 12. https://www.epropulsion.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/NAVY-Evo-User-Manual-V1.2.pdf
I have a Com Pac 19 sailboat with a 6HP Mercury long shaft that I am going to replace. I’m thinking of an electric outboard. The boat weighs 2,000 pounds and will be used on an inland central Florida lake. I would primarily use the motor to get in and out of the marina. If the wind dies down I might need it to power me back 6 to 10 miles at most. What kind of motor would you recommend?
Hi, Spirit 1.0 Evo can pushes boats up to 1.5 metric tonnes, which would be alright for going in and out of the marina. While the operating range widely depends on the speed and the battery capacity, so we recommend a bigger battery like E40 for the a long-range. Here are the references https://www.epropulsion.com/performance-bulletins/
Can I use my epropulsion motor as a side attachment on my 16 foot Old Town canoe?
thanks alot of information
Hello I recently got delivery of my EPROPULSION motor and battery. I noticed in the video’s what appeared to be a carrying case for both engine and battery. Can you advise me where I can purchase these item(s). I did not see them in the accessory section. Thank you
Hi. Is there an adjustable transom height model available? I have a 10′ tender/muck-around Alum dinghy, short shaft transom, and 14′ long shaft Alum I use for fishing. Seriously considering the Navy 6. So motor dual fit transom height would be absolute magic.
Hi Da, I’m afraid the adjustable transom height model is not available currently. However you may possibly try to modify the current model to suit your needs and you are very welcome share with us if it works : )
Hi Flora. Looking for an electric outboard long shaft for my aluminium boat of 17 ,5 feet which weighs 650lbs and 1000lbs loaded up. Looking to do 20knots and 20 miles per trip. You have a great product, keep pushing it, thanks, Tom
Hi Tom, thanks for your comment. We’ve run some test ride with detailed reports so you can learn how our products perform in real-life. Hope the information helps https://www.epropulsion.com/performance-bulletins/ Thanks!
I purchased a Spirt 1 3Hp this past summer and have it on a 10 ft hard bottom dingy. It is fantastic. I want use it on my pontoon boat as a silent kicker to quietly cruise on our northern lake. Do you have any kicker mount information or suggestions how to make this work. I need to keep the 115 hp outboard to get places and take the kids for ski and tube rides.
Hello David, our current installation is based on the instructions, as long as it fits the transom height, then is good, thanks!
Do you know of a Prop guard that fits the spirit 1.0?
Hello Matt, sorry that we don’t have prop guard for spirit 1.0, thanks!
I have a 17’ Grumman Square Stern Canoe that is rated for a 5HP gas outboard engine.
What Electric Outboard engine do you recommend that would be equivalent ?
Thanks, MikeL
Hello Mike, I’ll recommend you the navy 3.0 evo motor,which has 6 HP; and if you want a faster motor, we have navy 6.0 which has 9.9 HP for you to choose, thanks!
Thanks! Can you tell me the weight of each engine ?
Hello Mike, the navy 3.0 evo is 24.3kg, and the navy 6.0 evo is 36kg, thanks!
Can electric outboards be dual use for primary propulsion and as a trolling motor? Or is the minimum thrust too high?
Hello Derek, of course the eletric motor can be dual used for primary propulsion and as a trolling motor, but it also depends on the size of the boat, the heavier the boat is, the less speed it will improve, vice versa, thanks!
i have a 6 ton sports cruiser. I want to use the Navy 6.0 for trolling with 60v battery setup. Then use navy 6.0 with maybe 24V of battery on my inflateable dingy thoughts?
Hello Phill, to ensure the navy 6.0 evo can work at its full power continually, the batteries are required to possess over 125A of continuous discharge current; And to ensure at least one hour of duration, the battery capacity should reach 6000Wh or above, thanks!
We have a 16 ft. aluminum that gets intermittently heavy use – carrying supplies and 2 to 4 people to a water access cottage about 3 miles away, running to the landing empty for a few things, one or two people going a mile or two to fish, two or more people going out to the reefs for a picnic. The longest trip is usually the supply run. The boat currently has a 4 cycle 30 hp on it. Is there something available that could handle this? Thanks.
Hello Bill, our current maximum HP motor is navy 6.0 evo, which has 6KW and 9.9 HP, you can contact the local dealer for further information, and here is the website: https://www.epropulsion.com/find-a-dealer/ , thanks!
The dinghy for our 37′ sailboat is a 10′ RIB. We have been using a 5HP propane outboard motor, but want to replace that with electric. Would the 3HP feel underpowered after being used to the previous outboard? Should we step up to the 6HP?
Hello Ed, given your circumstance, we do recommend you the 6HP navy 3.0 evo, or a bigger 9.9HP navy 6.0 evo, thanks!
I’m interested in an electric outboard primarily to get back and forth across a river in a small jon boat — occasionally in high current conditions. I will be hauling the motor up and down the bank myself on a long set of stairs. The weight of the Spirit 1.0 (42.6 pounds with battery) is appealing, but I think I may require the power of the Navy 3.0 for high current situations. What is the lightest battery configuration for the Navy 3.0 if my typical round trip use case is only a few minutes (I need power but am not concerned with long run times)?
Hello David, the lightest battery for navy 3.0 evo is E80, which weight in 53kg, you can contact the local dealer for further informations: https://www.epropulsion.com/find-a-dealer/ , thanks!
I’m considering an eProlusion Spirit outboard for my 17′ O’Day Daysailer. The stated ranges seem ok for what I want to do, but my concern is that there are very high currents occasionally in my coastal Maine area. If I’m motoring against current, will I use up battery life significantly faster?
Hello Mark, it will have no significant effect whether when it’s in high current area or smooth area, thanks!
Where can I purchase a Navy 6.0 model.? I live in the Portland, Oregon area. Thank you.
Hello John, you can contact the local dealer fore further informations: https://www.epropulsion.com/find-a-dealer/ , thanks!
I recently purchased a Takacat 8’6” catamaran inflatable. It has much less wetted surface than a basic inflatable. What can I expect from an Spirit 1.0 in the way of performance and range? The Spirit 1.0 is the motor I am strongly considering. Thanks
Hello Bill, the spirit 1.0 plus can up to maximum 7-8km/h, and the range is about 7km, you can see our performance bulletins to make a reference: https://www.epropulsion.com/performance-bulletins/ , thanks!
I am considering the Spirit 1.0 as a ‘get-you-home’ motor for my 19′ Grand RIB. If the battery became depleted, can I cable directly to the main engine starter battery for any extra power that I might require?
Hello Neil, you can wait like half hour then restart the motor to drive back slowly, thanks!
I really want to put an electric kicker on my pontoon boat. I think the remote control would work fine but not sure if a modification for steering is practical. It would be primarily to cruise quietly around our small lake instead of listening to our outboard bubble away. Any thoughts?
Hello David, you can contact the local dealer about the remote kit and steering system, thanks!
I have a 15” sailing dinghy and I am comfortable with the power of an electric outboard. My question is could I take spare batteries?
Hi Paul, of course you can take a spare battery, you can contact the nearest dealer for further informations: https://www.epropulsion.com/find-a-dealer/ , thanks!
I have a Sonar sailboat (23 ft, 2500 lbs + 4 people) in Florida brackish inter coastal water. Used primarily for racing. I need a small motor with a long shaft for moving from dock to racing area, about 2 miles. Other identical boats use 2.5hp gas motors. Weight is important. Which model is recommended? I am also wondering if the batter can be detached after reaching the course to move weight to the center of the boat. I am concerned about reports stating HP equivalent ratings are often overstated in the electric industry. I am looking to purchase in the next few weeks. Thanks.
Dear customer, A high-powered motor is needed.(23 ft, 2500 lbs + 4 people) Navy 6.0 Evo (9.9HP)is recommended. And if you wants to move weight to the center of the boat. A Pod motor is recommended. You can refer to these cases: https://www.epropulsion.com/performance-bulletins/ For the more information of the product, you can contact the local dealer to obtain it. https://www.epropulsion.com/find-a-dealer/ thanks!
can I use my Honda generator/inverter to provide the 110V power for the epropulsion 20amp charger instead of shore power?
Hi, If you mean E battery 20A Charger, that’s ok. Note, the Max input current (110V): 12A
I have a Hobie Outback (12’6″) Fishing kayak – 125# to 160# total weight fully rigged Plus myself approx 140# for total weight of 300#. I fish in the Gulf of Mexico near shore and in shore in bays, sounds and rivers. Average current is probably .75 to 1.75 mph with winds of 5 to 12mph on days I fish. Sea state is typically a 1′ to 2′ swell at 4 to 7 second interval. Any guesses on the range and speed I would get at 75% and at full throttle?
Dear Mark, for 1kW motor and the information provided. At 75%, it is about 4-4.3mph. And at full throttle, it is abour 4.2-4.5mph. You can refer to the case on this page for more information https://www.epropulsion.com/performance-bulletins/
Hello, I already have solar panels to charge my 12v battery onboard. If I use the same panels to charge the Epropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus battery, can I use a 48v charger directly? What connection should be used to connect with the panels?
Hi Jack, it can be used. And we recommend using ePropulsion’s Plus Solar Charger.
i have a 25 feet seaswirl model 250 cuddy, 5000lb. I am interested in an electric outboard trolling motor for fishing and in case i have an engine trouble in the middle of the lake. what type of electric motor do you suggest? thanks
Hi george, Navy 6.0 Evo (9.9HP)is recommended. You can refer to these cases: https://www.epropulsion.com/performance-bulletins/ For the more information of the product, you can contact the local dealer to obtain it. https://www.epropulsion.com/find-a-dealer/
We have a cottage in Canada, cold in the winter, so a gas engine needs to be put into & out of storage for $100 x 2 per season. Does the electric motor require any maintenance to store? Probably would put the battery to basement to keep warm enough. Are there any other maintenance issues?
Dear Jensen, As you said, put the motor and battery in the right temperature environment. It should be noted that the motor is cleaned before storage. To ensure battery performance, we recommend recharging the battery every 3 months.
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4 Best Electric Outboard Motors
Last Updated by
Daniel Wade
June 15, 2022
Taking a small dinghy with an electric outboard motor on your sailboat can provide a means of quick and reliable transportation.
While electric outboard motors can have difficulty moving full-size sailboats around, they are more than powerful enough to get a small dinghy going fast. While trolling motors are only good for slow speeds, an electric outboard motor can get a boat going fast as long as the boat is small enough.
Electric outboard motors can be a better choice than gas motors. As well as being powerful enough, they are lighter, more compact, and more reliable. You can count on motors from ePropulsion and Torquedo to last for a while.
If your sailboat is large enough, you should always take a dinghy with you. As well as being a potential lifesaver in an emergency, a dinghy is useful any time you need to drop anchor and make it to shore. A dinghy with a motor is cheap compared to a sailboat, so a sailor should always have a dinghy with them.
Table of contents
If you are running a powerful motor on a small boat at full speed, you might be able to do 15 knots or better. Usually, you won't go that fast when you are in a dinghy and running an electric motor.
If you want to make it as far as possible, you will run the motor on much less than full power. Fifteen knots is what you might get if you are running a powerful 6000 watt motor on a small boat. Normal speeds are slower - you might move at less than five knots if you want to travel as many miles as possible before the battery dies.
Something like 20 miles is a rough, ballpark figure, although with some motors, you might be able to make it 70 miles at a slow speed. Don't take any risks when it comes to whether or not your battery will run out in the middle of the sea. Be on the safe side.
You will do much better if you run your motor at a slower speed. If you run your motor as fast as possible, you might make it only a fraction of the maximum distance before your battery runs out. Distances high above 20 miles are sometimes possible if you go slow, although it depends on the boat and the motor.
The power of an electric motor is usually measured in watts, not horsepower. Sometimes the power of an electric motor is given in horsepower, but usually in watts.
Boat motors vary greatly in how powerful they are. A motor that is only 10hp, 5hp, or 3hp is common even though outboard motors can be 20hp or more.
Usually, you can go more like 5 knots than 15 knots with an electric or gas motor. To go 15 knots, you might need something like a 100hp motor - this is too expensive and not what people are likely to put on a small dinghy.
In the long run, electric motors can save you money because it costs less to keep them running. After the first few years, electric motors are the cheaper choice.
The maintenance cost per hour of use is much higher for petrol motors. After only a few hundred hours of use, a petrol motor's cost will exceed the cost of an electric motor.
One disadvantage of electric motors is that they run on batteries, which take time to charge. You will have to charge your batteries overnight, compared to quickly refueling a gas engine.
One way out of this problem is to use a solar charger. With a solar charger, you can charge your batteries anywhere as long as the sun is out.
As well as being effectively cheaper than gas motors, electric motors are much quieter. Compared to a gas engine, an electric motor is almost silent. You will hear almost nothing and will not scare fish away.
Electric motors are also much cleaner to deal with than gas motors. If you use an electric motor, you won't have to deal with engine grease. You can get engine grease on your boat and not just on your hands and clothes with a gas motor.
Gas motors also have exhaust fumes, so an electric motor is better for your health. Electric motors are also simpler than gas motors, so you won't have to repair them as often.
Yes, you can find an electric motor with a power equivalent to an 80 horsepower gas engine. Not many people put such powerful motors on their dinghies, though. Dinghies mostly have weaker motors, often less than five horsepower.
You can definitely do expensive damage to a propeller if it hits a rock. A small bump won't damage it - most propellers are made well and are reasonably durable. If your motor does not come with a propeller guard, you should buy one separately.
If you are using a small dinghy that weighs less than two tons, and do not intend to go very fast, a 3hp motor is good enough. You can go much faster than trolling speed with only a 3hp motor if your craft is small enough. For a small sailboat that weighs more like six tons than one or two tons, a 10hp motor may be enough.
Make sure you buy a high-quality motor because these are not tiny investments. You can lose more than a little money if you buy a shoddy product that does not have a good warranty. Put a bit of time into verifying the reliability of whatever you purchase.
If you are fine with a fairly weak 3HP motor, the Spirit 1.0 Plus is a great product with few disadvantages. The Spirit 1.0 Plus from ePropulsion is built to last, uses power efficiently, and doesn't cost a fortune.
At full speed, the Spirit will only last for about 90 minutes on a single battery. With a 12 foot boat, you can go about 9 km/h - not bad for a relatively low power engine. You also do not need to run the boat on full power to approach your boat's maximum speed.
If you run the Spirit on 1/4 power, you can keep it going for 6 or 8 hours. Batteries are fairly heavy, but you can keep the motor running for a long time if you bring extra batteries. The motor can save you in a dangerous situation and is great for non-emergency uses as well.
Another advantage of the Spirit is that the battery floats, so it won't sink if you drop it in the water. The Spirit is also light, even with the powerful battery it comes with. The digital display that shows how much battery power you have left is accurate.
Like other electric boat motors, the Spirit is more environmentally friendly and healthier than a gas engine. Gas engines have fuel leakage and fumes; an electric motor avoids these problems. The Spirit even comes with a 180W solar panel to charge it, although this is not the only or the fastest way of charging the battery.
The motor even has a remote control, so you can steer it and adjust the speed with a console. If the Spirit has a disadvantage, it is that the range on a single battery is unimpressive. You can make it a little more than 20 miles, but many other electric motors let you go farther on a single battery.
If you are looking for something longer lasting than and more powerful than the Spirit 1.0 Plus, ePropulsion also offers the more powerful Navy 6.0 . The Navy 6.0 is equivalent to a 10Hp engine, so it won't struggle to move a relatively big boat.
The range on the Navy 6.0 is impressive. The battery is powerful enough that you can travel 40 miles before having to recharge. If you want to bring more than one battery, the Navy 6.0 can be compatible with other companies' batteries.
The Navy 6.0 also has a propeller that will stop immediately if it hits anything. This can save your engine from damage if the propeller hits a rock or anything else. There is also an emergency stop kill switch to
The Navy 6.0 works just as well in freshwater as in saltwater. It is advantageous to have an electric motor on a lake because there are laws against gas motors in some lakes.
One thing that makes the Torquedo Travel stand out is its onboard GPS computer, which can calculate how far you can travel before the battery runs out. The computer will continuously update how far you can travel based on how much battery power is left, how fast you are going, and how much power you are using.
While the Torquedo Travel can run for 10 or 11 hours on a full charge, it can only move a small boat at 1.5 or 2 knots for that long. If you run the engine at half throttle, it will last for 3.5 hours at 3 knots. If you travel faster, the battery runs out very fast - it will only last half an hour at 5 knots.
If you want a solar charger for the motor, you can buy it separately from the company. It is costly, but the solar panels do work well and give you a way to charge the battery at sea.
The Torquedo Travel is also a small and light motor that does not take up much room. Without the battery, it weighs only 8.9 kilograms. You can easily remove and store the engine.
Another useful feature is the kill switch that allows you to stop the motor immediately in an emergency. You can also use the engine/battery as a power source for electronics through a USB.
The Torquedo is a reliable engine backed by a two-year warranty. It is equivalent only to a 3HP engine, so it is not powerful enough for everyone.
The Torquedo Cruise is the best choice if you want a more powerful alternative to the Torquedo Travel. The Torquedo Cruise electric outboard motor is equivalent to an 8HP gas engine. If you need a motor for a boat that weighs three or four tons instead of one or two tons, get the Cruise instead of the Travel.
The Torquedo Cruise will stay completely waterproof for a long time and not develop small leaks quickly. Small leaks can ruin some of the cheaper engines on the market. The Torquedo Cruise is also very corrosion resistant, so you can use it in saltwater for a long time without damage.
The Torquedo Cruise has the same onboard GPS computer, emergency off switch, and two-year warranty as the Torquedo Travel does. The only disadvantage compared to the Torquedo Travel is the higher price. Not everyone needs a more powerful motor, but it is an excellent engine if you do.
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Are you looking to purchase a trolling motor for your boat? It can be an intimidating process, as there are many factors you will need to consider. What size trolling motor do you need? What type of battery do you need? What type of power output will suit your boat?
If you’re looking for a new trolling motor, you’re in the right place. This comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need about sizing, voltage, and power for your trolling motor. We’ll also offer tips on properly caring for your motor and extending its life. With this knowledge, you can choose the best motor for your boat.
Selecting the proper trolling motor for your boat can be challenging due to the variety available, each with its advantages. Gas-powered trolling motors suit larger boats, offering more power, longer run times, and faster speeds. They tend to be noisy and require regular maintenance.
Electric trolling motors are suitable for smaller boats, kayaks, and bass or panfish boats. They are quieter and more cost-effective to maintain than gas-powered models. Electric motors come in various sizes, determined by voltage based on the boat’s power requirements and the terrain it will navigate. The thrust of the electric motor should match the weight of the boat and the motor combination used.
Selecting the right size trolling motor for your boat requires careful consideration of several factors. First and foremost, you should consider the type of boat you’ll be using. Boat size and weight are crucial in determining the appropriate trolling motor, as different boats demand varying thrust levels and power to move efficiently.
After identifying a suitable trolling motor based on your boat size, the next step is to calculate the combined weight of your motor and the boat. This calculation will help you determine the amount of thrust and power you need to navigate the water effectively.
Consider how your boat handles the water and the specific activities you plan to engage in, such as fishing or cruising. Understanding these aspects will help you decide whether a higher voltage or greater thrust is necessary to suit your specific needs and preferences.
Selecting the appropriate trolling motor requires careful consideration of voltage requirements based on boat size and the specific terrain you’ll be navigating. For smaller boats like canoes or jon boats that frequent shallow and calm waters, a 12-volt motor is typically sufficient. These motors are suitable for leisurely activities like fishing or relaxed cruising near shorelines, where high-speed performance is not a priority.
For mid-sized boats, such as bass boats that venture into slightly deeper waters with moderate currents, a 24-volt motor offers the appropriate balance of power and maneuverability. It caters to activities that demand increased speed or handle heavier loads without overstraining the battery with unnecessary amps, thus ensuring longer battery life.
Larger boats, like pontoon boats, navigating deeper waters with strong currents, benefit from the power of a 36-volt motor. This setup allows for faster speeds over longer distances and is particularly useful for activities like wake surfing, skiing, or wakeboarding , where quick maneuverability and sustained high speeds are required.
After determining the suitable voltage for your boat, the next step is to assess the required thrust or power. Different boat sizes demand varying amounts of thrust depending on their weight. Smaller vessels generally need lower thrust, while larger ones require higher power to accommodate the heavier weight displacement that could otherwise slow down progress.
To accurately calculate the required power, consider the total weight of your boat and motor combination. Add 10% as a buffer to account for potential challenges or upgrades, such as adding live wells or anchors. This overage ensures you can consistently meet your desired speed specifications without straining or draining the trolling motor battery too quickly, providing proper power delivery throughout your voyages.
When purchasing a trolling motor, there are several important considerations to remember. The shaft length is crucial in determining the propeller’s depth underwater, affecting maneuverability in tight spaces and shallow waters to avoid potential damage. Research the maximum compatible speeds based on the motor’s design capabilities, ensuring the right power levels for various activities without drastic modifications when circumstances change.
Many electric trolling motors have features like LED lights for easier night fishing and variable speed control knobs that offer precise control, eliminating costly upgrades. When coupled with proper trolling motor batteries, these features allow for optimal performance ratios, making them ideal choices for achieving goals without overspending. Considering these factors, you can confidently select the best trolling motor that aligns perfectly with your boating needs, ensuring a satisfying and efficient experience on the water.
Selecting the proper trolling motor for your boat can be daunting. With so many types of trolling motors available, it can be difficult to know which one is best for your boat. By following this guide, you can make an informed decision and choose the appropriate motor for your boat. With the proper motor, you can enjoy many hours of fishing, cruising, or whatever other activities you may have planned with the peace of mind that your boat will have the power to get you there.
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There's a lot to choosing the correct electric motor for your boat and our BCFing experts share their knowledge.
19 October 2022
When it comes to choosing the correct electric motor for your boat, there are a few things you should consider. In this buyer's guide, the BCFing experts will run through all you need to know. We will talk about the different sizes, mounting options, what battery to use, plus some handy hints that will help in finding the electric motor that will best fit your needs.
The electric motor, trolling motor or as they are commonly known, ‘leccys', have been one of the largest breakthroughs in boating electronics to ever hit the market. Electric motors have definitely been around a while, with a history dating back as far as the mid 1930s. Over the years they have developed into a sought after fishing and boating tool that many fisho's now wouldn't go without.
Electric motors are used to silently cover water and manoeuvre the boat, while also allowing access into the skinniest of water that would normally only be accessible by kayak , hopefully finding you that new honey hole or fishing location. This is the reason why electrics have become so popular and found a home on so many boats. Whether used for fishing, cruising or kayaking, an electric boat motor will certainly help make your next day on the water a ripper.
Nowadays, it's extremely rare to find a fishing boat without an electric perched atop the bow or secured to the stern. Although electric motors may not directly be responsible for filling your esky any quicker, they definitely play a role in keeping the boat in the correct location which, in turn, will give you a better chance of catching a fresh feed of fish or landing that monster.
The electric motor has primarily been designed for use in rivers, estuaries and freshwater impoundments. They are simple to deploy and manoeuvre with either foot pedal, remote-control, or tiller operation. Electric's work best at slower speeds which allows them to make small directional changes against wind or tide while keeping the boat riding smoothly. They are ideal for snag bashing, as the minor adjustments you make will keep the boat within casting distance of the strike zone. They can also be effective for trolling, which is why they show such appeal to anglers who prefer to throw lures .
When looking at what size electric you need for your boat, it all comes down to the intended purpose, boat layout, and most importantly overall weight. Electric motors use a power rating that is measured in pounds of thrust. To make it simple, we recommend at least 2lb of thrust for every 100lb (45kg) of fully-loaded boat weight. When calculating overall weight, be sure to include everything from the hull, motor, fuel and of course the maximum capacity of your vessel.
It's also important to include any extras that fishos and boaties wouldn't hit the water without such as fishing rods , fishing reels and of course an icebox , to hold all your fish or cold drinks. Most small to medium-sized vessels from 3.7-4.5 metres will comfortably take a 44 or 55lb electric motor, this will provide enough thrust to push your boat through the water with ease. Larger offshore vessels have also begun to realise the benefits of having a leccy onboard, although they may require something a bit larger like an 80lb or 100lb thrust to deal with the extra weight.
The length of the shaft is another crucial element in choosing the right motor, as all boats come with different freeboard sizes. The rule of thumb is that you want a shaft long enough to comfortably position the foot of the motor and propeller roughly 12” below the surface of the water. If you plan on using the leccy in rough conditions, it's worth going for a longer shaft, to avoid motor cavitation during use and spooking the fish with unnatural noise pollution.
Selecting the correct size electric motor will help to extend the life expectancy of not only the electric, but also the battery in which it is powered. Over or under-powering your vessel will put unnecessary strain on both, which may result in damage to your electrical equipment.
One of the most crucial things to consider when selecting an electric motor is whether you want it to be positioned on the bow (front of the boat) or the stern (rear of the boat). Each comes with its own specific design and list of features
A revolutionary new technology designed by Minn Kota ; i-Pilot is a GPS powered navigation system that over the last decade has been refined into a product that should be at the top of every fishos Christmas list. It offers a selection of advanced control features and settings to enhance your time on the water. Spot-Lock would be the most valuable feature, allowing the boat's location to be held with the simple push of a button, keeping the boat within a few feet while compensating for any variables such as wind or tide.
When powering your electric motor, a deep cycle battery is the only way to go. Perfectly suited for the purpose of running marine electronics such as leccys, sounders and nav lights, a deep cycle battery has been constructed with thicker and heavier plates that can withstand vibrations and the occasional knock you would normally experience in a boat. They have also been designed to draw a steady amount of current over long periods, unlike cranking batteries that exert a large voltage spike but can only maintain it for short bursts.
Standard deep cycle batteries are relatively inexpensive however they should be regularly monitored and require an occasional top-up with distilled water. It is important that they are stored in a well-ventilated location where hydrogen gases produced by the battery can safely escape. Sealed lead-acid batteries such as the popular AGM varieties can be mounted in any orientation, they do not require the same level of maintenance as your standard deep cycle battery and can be stored in any safe location around your vessel.
A 100AH deep cycle battery should provide more than enough power for a full day on the water.
The extensive range of electric motors that are available at your local BCF store will have you on the water in no time, with offerings from popular brands including Minn Kota and Watersnake . From the smallest of leccys perfect for throwing on the back of the kayak and giving your arms a rest as you cruise the waterways, through to the largest and most impressive electric motors, kitted out with all the bells and whistles turning your boat into a stealthy, fish-catching machine, you'll be sure to find something to suit your needs.
Head in-store and have a word to our friendly and knowledgeable team of BCFing experts or check out our full range from the comfort of home with our online store. You can also sign up to become a BCF club member to receive great discounts and exclusive specials.
Casting lures for pelagics, choosing the best fish finder/gps combo, choosing the best kayak.
Electric outboard motors seem to be springing up all over the place right now. We round up 11 of the best electric outboards on the market…
Electric outboard motors are nothing new, after all the humble electric trolling motor has been around for decades, but in the past couple of years a new breed of more powerful units has emerged.
Capable of powering everything from a tender to a 50-knot sportsboat, this new generation of electric outboard motors will surely play a big role in the growing trend towards all- electric boats .
We’ve rounded up 11 of the best options available on the market right now to help you track down the right one for cutting down your boat’s carbon footprint.
Weight: 15.5kg Power: 600W / 0.8hp Battery: 500Wh Range: 11nm Price: £1,499
Torqeedo has been making electric outboard motors for quite a while now, and their latest offering slots into the travel range of electric outboards between the 503 (1.5hp) and the 1103C (3hp).
All the usual Torqeedo refinements are present and correct. IP67 rated as totally waterproof, the 603 Travel has a magnetic kill cord and an onboard computer providing instant readouts of operating range at current RPM and battery-charge status displayed on the tiller arm.
You can link it to an Apple or Android app and gain even more information including a map-based range indicator.
Read more about the Torqeedo 603 Travel
Weight: 27.1kg Power: 750W / 1hp Battery: 1kWh Range: 34nm Price: $1,500
Announced in early 2022 and launched less than a year later, the Mercury Avator 7.5e is the first electric unit from the world’s biggest builder of outboard engines .
The whole top plate hinges up to reveal the battery, which can be quickly removed from your electric boat or replaced for convenient charging.
It’s by no means the lightest electric outboard motor on the market, but its claimed range at 25% throttle is very impressive – we look forward to putting one to the test.
Not resting on its laurels, Mercury launched the Avator 20e and 35e this summer as well. These units are no bigger than the 7.5e, but need wiring in to an on-board battery bank.
Read more about the Mercury Avator 7.5e
Read more about the Mercury Avator 20e and 35e
Weight: 14.5kg (inc. bracket) Power: 1kW / 3hp Battery: 1,085 Wh Range: 14nm Price: £2,185
The idea behind the Remigo One electric outboard makes perfect sense; rather than mounting the battery on top of the shaft, like the engine on an old-school petrol outboard, the Slovenian company has integrated it into the shaft and shaped it like a rudder to minimise drag and maximise steering effect.
It is backed by a 2-year warranty and has a magnetic key/kill cord. There are some other neat ideas too. The rudder casing is waterproof to IP67 above the water and IP69 below the water so it will survive a dunking, and it’s held in place by a clamp mechanism that allows you to adjust the shaft length to suit your boat with the aid of an allen key.
The transom bracket is separate to the motor so you can leave the bracket attached to the boat and simply slot the motor on and off. The tiller also folds and locks parallel to the blade so you can use it as a perfectly balanced carry handle.
Watch our test drive video of the Remigo One electric outboard
The Kicker is exceptionally light and surprisingly powerful
Weight: 4.4kg Power: 1kW / 3hp Battery: 259kWh Range: 5nm Price: £1,250
If it’s light weight and value that you prioritise over cruising range, then this Norwegian option is hard to beat.
Launched in 2021, the Kicker boasts enough range and grunt to get one person from ship to shore and back again in calm conditions, as editor Hugo proved in a week-long test.
The only downside is that the battery isn’t removable, which can make charging a little more difficult.
Read more about the Thrustme Kicker
Weight: 15kg Power: 1kW / 3hp Battery: 740Wh Range: Up to 1hr Price: €2,850
A brand new option from France, the TEMO-1000 doesn’t look anything like a traditional outboard motor.
The design doesn’t have any rectangular box on top, just a rudder-shaped shaft with an electric motor at the bottom and a long slim battery that simply slides down into it, connecting automatically to your electric boat without having to plug wires into it.
The tiller arm does the same, meaning it disappears completely when not in use and yet it is never detached and therefore never mislaid.
Read more about the TEMO-1000
Weight: 16kg Power: 1kW / 3hp Battery: 1.03kWh Range: 18nm Price: £1,570
A top-of-the-range option from trolling motor stalwarts Haswing, the Ultimate 3 is suitable for boats up to 7m long.
The brushless DC motor produces 3hp (claimed to be equivalent to a 4hp petrol outboard motor), and it’s available in short and long shaft versions as well as the standard length.
Not only is the detachable battery unusually light at 5kg (lightest in class, according to the manufacturer), it also connects to the engine in a single simple operation without the need for connecting cables or other fiddly parts – no bad thing when you’re bobbing about in a tender!
Read more about the Haswing Ultima 3
Weight: 19.3kg Power: 1kW / 3hp Battery: 1,276Wh Range: 22nm Price: £1,600
The original Spirit 1.0 has actually been in production for six years with over 10,000 units built. Featuring a 1,000W brushless motor, this electric outboard motor is claimed to be equivalent to a 3hp petrol engine, ideal for tender duties or small to medium sized dinghies.
This Plus version, launched in 2020, is the same weight, size and power – the big gain is where it’s needed most, run time. It has been achieved by upgrading the battery from 1,018Wh to 1,276Wh.
At the same time, the power cord has been upgraded for durability and reliability, and the voltage has been changed from 40.7V to 48V, making it compatible with an external 48V battery. The battery will even float if dropped overboard!
Read more about the ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus
Weight: 55kg Power: 3.7kW / 9.9hp Battery: Sold separately Range: Depends on battery Price: £TBC
Announced in 2022 and tested on a 12m Venmar water taxi, the Yamaha Harmo electric boat drivetrain may be a rather modestly powered 3.7kW motor, equivalent to a 9.9hp petrol engine, but it is being seen as a major statement of intent from the Japanese brand synonymous with big, powerful four-stroke outboards.
Intriguingly, the Harmo is neither an outboard engine nor a sterndrive but a new propulsion package that borrows ideas from both camps.
It is mounted on the transom just above the waterline much like a sterndrive leg, but in keeping with the outboard engine ethos it’s an entirely self-contained unit that includes the motor and steering mechanism.
Read more about the Yamaha Harmo electric rim drive
Weight: 100kg Power: 40kW / 55hp Battery: 20-60kWh Range: 100nm Price: £28,000 (ex. battery)
The RAD40 drive from British start-up RAD Propulsion appears to be far more than just a conventional outboard leg with an electric motor bolted on top.
Every single element of it has been designed from the ground up to maximise the benefits of electric power. The result is a brand new drive system that is not only much cleaner, quieter and more efficient than a petrol outboard engine but also smaller, lighter, cheaper to maintain and even more manoeuvrable.
In its current 40kW guise (equivalent to around 55hp) it’s powerful enough to propel everything from a 25-knot planing RIB to a 10-knot displacement craft but with a larger 160hp RAD120 as well as a portable tiller steered RAD2 already in development, it’s clear that RAD Propulsion has its eyes set on a much wider market.
Read more about the RAD Propulsion RAD40 electric outboard
Weight: 580kg Power: 110kW / 180hp Battery: 70kWh Range: 70nm Price: $78,990
Launched in 2021 by Canadian firm Vision Marine Technologies, the E-Motion 180E looks like a genuine alternative to the 150-200hp petrol outboard motors that power the vast majority of 18-25ft sportsboats and RIBs.
The outboard engine itself weighs around 180kg, compared to 216kg for a 200hp V6 Mercury Verado, but that relatively modest saving pales into comparison next to the 400kg weight of the 70kWh battery pack.
Admittedly, a fair chunk of that will be offset by the lack of fuel tank and starter batteries, but unlike a petrol boat, the battery pack’s weight stays constant whether full or close to empty.
Read more about the E-Motion 180E
The Evoy Storm looks, feels and goes like a well-matched petrol outboard engine
Weight: 350kg Power: 222kW / 300hp Battery: 2x 63kWh Range: 25nm Price: €144,700
Although currently still in development, the Evoy Storm is a working prototype that has already been fitted to a number of partner brands’ boats, including an Iguana amphibious craft and an Axopar 25 that we tested at last year’s Cannes Yachting Festival .
Despite a 450kg weight penalty over a fully fuelled petrol boat, and five passengers, we still recorded a top speed of over 50 knots – vastly quicker than any other electric boat we’ve tested and not far off the world speed record for a production electric boat of 57.7 knots (held by a Goldfish X9 powered by a 400hp Evoy inboard).
The anticipated price for this electric Axopar 25 is €185,000 (ex tax), which looks pretty good value given that the price of the motor alone is €74,900 plus another €69,800 for the batteries. Whether Axopar can maintain, or even reduce, that price once the Evoy Storm enters production in 2024 remains to be seen.
Read more about the Evoy Storm
If this seems like a lot of choice, there are even more options coming down the pipeline in 2024. MBY understands that several major outboard manufacturers are planning on entering the electric outboard market, so watch this space…
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THE electric trolling motor has evolved to become one of the most important accessories anglers can install on their boats. While an electric mightn’t directly catch you more fish, it will put you in their vicinity more stealthily, and in the case of many current models, keep you on the spot using modern GPS technology. Many electric motors will also automatically steer a course along a troll line, run virtually silently, deploy at the push of a button and more. If only they could brew coffee!
Like many keen anglers, I’ve long relied on electric trolling motors to assist my fishing. The first electric motor I owned was a Shakespeare 12v 24lb thrust model bought in the ‘80s for use on a canoe and a 10ft Brooker tinny. While not as sophisticated as the current crop of electrics, that old Shakespeare repaid its initial outlay cost ($75 from memory) many times over the years, mostly trolling for trout in the Snowy Mountains and natives in south western NSW. Being a basic design though, the Shakespeare’s 3-speed toggle switch set on High would drain a fully charged car battery (pre deep cycle battery availability) in quick time.
When I upgraded to a 3.9m Stessl Edge Tracker I fitted a Minn-Kota 42lb bow-mount 12v electric with foot pedal control and autopilot – at the time these motors weren’t common place in Australia. It was also a freshwater model, the precursor to the later Riptide saltwater series. That motor delivered years of trouble free duty and helped me fish for everything from trout to natives, flatties and bream. When upgrading again to a 4.3m Webster Bassmaster, I installed a new Riptide 12v 42lb thrust Minn-Kota bow-mount, later retrofitted with a Co-Pilot remote control. That motor was used on the majority of my fishing trips over the next 10 years, apart from offshore, and indirectly caught me a lot of fish.
A Jarvis Walker Watersnake 55lb thrust bow-mount electric resides on the current boat in my shed – a 3.9m Quintrex Hornet Trophy. The point of all this is that any fishing boat I own must have an electric motor fitted. For mine, an electric motor is as important as a sounder/GPS unit for getting connected to fish. So if you’ve never owned an electric motor, here’s what you need to know.
The first electric trolling motor was invented by O.G. Schmidt in 1934 in Minnesota, North Dakota, USA. The motor was a basic design achieved by attaching a starter motor from a Ford Model A car to a flexible shaft and propeller. Schmidt’s invention later resulted in the birth of the Minn Kota Manufacturing Company, named after its location near the Minnesota/North Dakota border. As well as Minn Kota, there are other reputable brands of electric trolling motors on the Australian market today including Motorguide and Watersnake. All provide propulsion via brushed electric motors driven by 12 or 24v DC battery power.
Unlike petrol outboards which are rated in horsepower, electrics are rated by their propulsion force at full speed, measured in pounds thrust. As a general guide, 12v creates thrust up to 60lb with currents up to 55 amps, 24v will create thrust to 100lb and current to 55 amps. To provide the power, 12v marine deep cycle sealed lead acid batteries are most commonly used. Unlike car batteries, deep cycle batteries are designed to withstand constant discharging without damage. The modern electric is designed around a motor sealed inside a watertight compartment at the end of the drive shaft. Being submerged during operation, prevents the motor overheating.
Typically, on a boat fitted with an electric motor the fuel-driven engine is used to quickly get from place to place, while the electric is only used when fishing. An electric motor performs best for slow speed manoeuvring when lure or fly fishing, trolling or to help hold position in current or against wind. In case of a main engine breakdown an electric may also get you home in favourable conditions, but is best not relied on for that purpose.
The electric motor that best suits your boat comes down to boat size, weight and intended purpose. Selecting the perfect motor can be challenging as there are many variables, and electric motor manufacturers generally only provide basic guidelines. As a basic guide, each 100lb (45kg) of boat weight requires around 2lb of thrust. Going by that, if you’ve got a popular sized boat of around 4.5m that weighs 1000kg (including, motor, fuel and 2 x occupants) that’s around 2200lb, which equates to 44lb of thrust.
Given that most fishos cart way more gear on boats than they need a little leeway is required, but in this case a common 12-volt electric model providing 55lb of thrust should adequately do the job. As when selecting the power rating of your fuel engine, it’s also best to avoid over or under powering your boat with an electric motor.
This is a big consideration when choosing an electric. In general terms, bow mounts pull the boat through the water and steer quicker, using less power than a stern mounted motor that pushes the hull. Bow mounts too can usually be operated remotely which is a big advantage when fishing. Bow mount electrics are commonly deployed by depressing a lever by foot while simultaneously sliding the motor housing from its cradle by hand. In the case of the recently released Minn Kota Ulterra, deployment can be done via a touch of a button on the unit’s i-pilot remote control. If there’s a downside of sophisticated bow mounts like this it’s usually only the initial outlay.
If you intend to mostly troll under electric power a tiller control model mounted on the boat’s transom might suit you best. There are plenty of tiller control models on the market and most are reasonably priced, especially in comparison to higher specced bow-mount electrics. Most tiller control models feature a twist throttle like a petrol outboard, and a simple locking tilt/trim arrangement. Tiller control models are generally 12v powered and provide up to 55lb thrust, with some manufacturers offering higher propulsion models. An advantage of the tiller control electrics is that they can be easily adapted for use on canoes and kayaks.
Bow mount electrics as their title suggests are fitted to the boat’s pointy end, commonly via a form of quick release plate that allows for easy removal for travel, maintenance or security. Operating bow mount electrics is usually done via a foot control or wireless remote. Most foot controls have on/off, speed and steering controls with the latter operating via electronically controlled servo motors. Many bow mounts come equipped with both foot and wireless remote control which means operators can choose which system suits them best. In recent years, key-fob style remote transmitters have revolutionised electric motor controls. These remotes – that are commonly worn via a lanyard around the neck or as a wristwatch style – not only steer and direct the boat, they can hold your position even in current and wind using GPS technology. Trollers are also able to point their boat in the direction they want to run and the motor will self adjust to keep the boat on course.
Electric motors are available with different shaft lengths, so when choosing one for your boat it’s important to get it right. While the depth of the motor is usually adjustable via a standard locking collar system, having enough length for adjustment to start with will prevent problems. If your boat has a healthy amount of freeboard the motor will be mounted a longer distance above the water surface and require a longer shaft than a lower slung craft. When fishing in any swell the rise and fall of the boat will see the electric motor housing do the same. This is accentuated in the case of a bow mounted electric. If the motor shaft is too short the motor propeller will cavitate at the surface on maximum rise and make steering and manoeuvring the boat very difficult. If you’re unsure which length suits your boat ask the dealer or someone who has the same boat as you. Online forums can be a great source of info for this sort of thing. As a general rule, in this case, longer is usually better.
Having never owned or operated a 24v electric motor I can’t see a huge need for one, however, if you have a big heavier boat that might struggle from the maximum thrust offered by a 12v model going to 24v is possibly your best bet. The main consideration with going up in voltage is the extra weight and bulk of installing extra batteries and the associated cabling. If you’ve got an average weight boat of up to 5m, which is the sort of craft more commonly fitted with electric motors, a 12v model should be available to suit your needs. Considering other factors such as hull shape, windage and more will affect this decision. The best way to narrow down your choice of electric motor is to talk to owners of similar boats to yours who can give you firsthand advice on any potential pitfalls. Once you’ve chosen the right electric motor for your boat you’ll be amazed at how much your fishing will benefit. Ultimately, you’ll be catching more fish.
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Zac Panaretos catches up with chefs and fishos to chat about catching, cooking, and sustainable seafood.
Indy Thompson is a marine scientist from Tasmania with a passion for fishing and educating recreational anglers with the skills for positive change.
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The trolling motor was invented in 1934, but the first saltwater models didn’t hit the water until a decade ago. Why did it take almost 90 years for the trolling motor to reach coastal anglers? Durability. Combining saltwater, metal and electricity is a recipe for corrosion-forming electrolysis. Freshwater trolling motors died in salt and early saltwater models struggled to survive.
The latest generation of saltwater trolling motors feature durable components and smart design to thrive in the harsh marine environment. Leading the way, Garmin’s Force Kraken trolling motor is built with tough components and advanced features for the ultimate in boat control to catch more fish.
The first trolling motors were small electric kickers that attached to the stern of a jon boat. Bass anglers quickly realized the advantage of mounting an electric motor on the bow to silently maneuver the boat while fishing. Before long, a trolling motor was standard equipment on a bass sled. But the technology has been slow to reach saltwater.
A trolling motor is a small electric motor on a long shaft powered by large, rechargeable batteries. The shaft is mounted on the boat to hold the motor below the water. Using a hand control, remote control or foot pedal, I direct the motor to position the boat with more accuracy than possible with a gas outboard. With a trolling motor, I can silently troll for skittish fish, sneak into shallow water, patrol an area, maneuver handsfree and hold my boat in one position while I fish.
Modern trolling motors have some amazing features. The most significant advancement is connecting the trolling motor to a GPS network. With the satellite location information, I can program my trolling motor to follow a course, repeat a course, return to a location, jog at a low speed, and more. When I push the anchor lock button, the GPS manipulates the trolling motor so my boat stays in one position.
Manufacturers have focused on durability and power improvements to bring the technology to saltwater anglers. To survive salt and sand that plagues coastal fishing equipment, saltwater trolling motors like Garmin’s Force Kraken use corrosion-resistant materials, redundant systems, and sealed electronics.
The next challenge was generating power to pull a large saltwater fishing boat in strong current and wind. To produce enough torque to move heavy boats, the best saltwater trolling motors use brushless motors that draw less electricity and create more power. Garmin’s Force Kraken can produce up to 100 foot pounds of thrust with a shaft length up to 90 inches to run boats up to 35 feet long.
With the invention of forward-facing and 360 sonar, the trolling motor has become a convenient place to mount the sonar transducer. Attaching the transducer to the motor head, I can turn the transducer to direct the signal at potential targets while watching the return on a multi-function display.
Speaking of the fish finder display, Garmin’s Force Kraken trolling motor uses wireless connection to integrate with Garmin’s electronics systems. I control the Kraken with a handheld remote control, wireless foot pedal, smartphone or smartwatch. Combining these user-friendly features with a durable electric motor large and powerful enough to fish offshore and inshore, Garmin’s Force Kraken is a perfect example of the capabilities of modern saltwater trolling motors.
Adding GPS control and forward-facing sonar completely changed the trolling motor game. The small electric motors are now a boat control and fish-finding weapon. With the Garmin Force Kraken and other modern trolling motors, I program routes, hold my boat in one place, search fish in every direction and fish all day without worrying about battery power. Today’s trolling motors have a long list of features aimed at making fishing easier and more fun.
Without a doubt, the Garmin Force Kraken’s virtual anchor is its most valuable feature. I push a button on the remote and the trolling motor works to hold the boat in place. Garmin’s Force Kraken uses a two band GPS for pinpoint accuracy and lightning fast steering response.
Most trolling motors spin the motor 360 degrees to move the boat forward and backward. Instead of turning the whole motor, The Force Kraken uses a reverse gear which creates less turbulence and responds quicker saving time and energy. In swift current and strong wind, the Force Kraken controls my boat without missing a beat.
In addition to advanced boat control capabilities, Garmin’s Force Kraken and other top-end trolling motors offer me a place to mount my forward facing sonar transducer. Forward-facing and 360 sonar allow me to see fish and structure in every direction below the water. The transducer turns 360 degrees to search for fish and structure up to 200 feet from the boat.
Some anglers mount the transducer to the end of a pole that is attached to a bracket on the side of the boat. Garmin’s Force Kraken allows me to mount the LiveScope transducer on the motor. To direct the sonar signal, I turn the trolling motor in the direction I’m searching. I route the transducer cable through the trolling motor shaft for a clean install and less chance of damaging the cord.
Battery performance is a trolling motor’s Achilles heel. The electric motor runs on large batteries with limited capacity. Sealed lead-acid marine batteries are the standard; lithium batteries are lighter and more durable with longer battery life.
To extend the battery life, Garmin’s Force Kraken’s brushless motor conserves energy and produces more power than a brushed motor. Also, the efficient propeller and reverse gear reduce the motor’s work load. Running off 36 volts (that’s three 12 volt batteries), the Kraken will produce 100 pounds of thrust for hours of fishing.
A trolling motor is all about boat control, so controlling the motor is key to catching more fish. Garmin’s Force Kraken offers a floating, wireless remote control, a wireless foot pedal or integration with a smartphone or smartwatch. I can even operate the motor with my fish finder display.
The best trolling motor remotes have large, intuitive buttons and a small LED display of motor information. To operate the motor while I’m casting my fishing rod, a wireless foot pedal promotes hands-free fishing.
If the wireless systems fail, I can still control the motor with my phone. A few basic features, like anchor lock, are accessible on the base of the motor. When I’m searching for fish, I use the foot-pedal to cast and retrieve while covering water.
The handheld remote gives me quick access to anchor lock and other programming features. To unlock the motor’s full potential, I use the app and wireless connection to my fish finder to program routes and make precise location adjustments.
When the current is ripping and the wind is whipping, a trolling motor struggles to control a big boat. Garmin Force Kraken has a Turbo Mode that increases the power and torque for short periods when I need it most. Kicking the motor into Turbo Mode helps me limit power usage by saving maximum speed for the toughest motoring conditions.
A trolling motor quietly maneuvers the boat while I’m fishing. To prevent spooking the fish, Garmin’s Force Kraken combines an optimized propeller and silent operation. The propeller creates minimal bubbles and no cavitation and the shaft turns smoothly. When the boat is in anchor lock mode, the propeller spins forward and reverse instead of the shaft constantly spinning to keep the boat in one place.
Most saltwater boats don’t have a wide open deck in the bow like a bass boat. Garmin’s Force Kraken uses a small pivot style mount to secure the motor with a minimal footprint.
When I arrive to the fishing grounds, I rotate the shaft to unlock the release and then slide and pivot the motor head into the water. The pivot mount is easy to remove from the boat and requires less space in the bow, so it fits more saltwater boats.
A long shaft on a large saltwater boat takes a lot of abuse. In rough seas, the powerful motor wants to bend and break the shaft. Saltwater trolling motors have an indestructible and corrosion resistant composite shaft. The best saltwater trolling motors, like Garmin’s Force Kraken, have a shaft that includes a conduit to route a fish finder transducer cable.
The final choice is choosing the shaft length. The trolling motor’s composite shaft reaches from the bow to below the water. Measure the distance and choose a shaft length that will keep the motor below the water in rough seas. An easy-to-use online tutorial makes it easy to build a total boat system.
Garmin’s Force Kraken is available in four sizes, from 48 inches to 90 inches, to cover boats from 18 feet to 35 feet long. The price at Bass Pro Shops depends on the shaft length, with a 48-inch model going for $3799.99 to $4299.99 for the 90-inch motor.
It’s a good time to be in the market for a trolling motor. The most advanced technology is now available for saltwater trolling motors with up to 115-pounds of thrust and a 100-inch shaft. And the latest motors are finally winning the battle against corrosion with space-age materials and design. The race is on to create the most advanced trolling motor that is easiest to use. All this is great news for saltwater anglers looking to add a trolling motor to their boat.
Power-Pole’s primary objective when they designed their first trolling motor was durability. They satisfied that objective with a bulletproof brushless motor, reinforced propeller, titanium shaft and redundant systems.
The Move PV is part of Power-Pole’s total boat control system to link with their shallow-water anchors to stop and propel the boat with one remote. Of course, the Move includes all the advanced GPS features expected of a top-of-the-line trolling motor.
Price: $5599.99 – 72”
MotorGuide’s Xi5 is a classic saltwater trolling motor that provides advanced features at a great value. I control the Xi5 with a handheld remote or wireless foot pedal. The trolling motor integrates with Lowrance, Simrad and Mercury Marine electronics. A pin-point accurate GPS allows me to jog the boat, follow a course and lock the boat in position. The Xi5 has been around for years, a testament to its durable composite shaft, sealed electronics and corrosion-resistant coatings.
Price: $2549.99 – 72”
Minn Kota started the trolling motor game and stays ahead of the competition with the largest and most powerful trolling motors. With shafts up to 100 inches and 115 foot-pounds of thrust, the Riptide Instinct Quest motor is appropriate for boats over 35 feet long. Minn Kota’s Riptide Instinct Quest includes a brushless motor , GPS control, electronics integration and power-saving features expected in a premium trolling motor for saltwater.
Price: $4699.99 – 72”
Trolling motors for saltwater are more powerful and durable than ever before. I use my trolling motor to troll, power drift, fish structure and silently search for fish. Trolling motors may be new to saltwater fishing, but the advanced boat-control features make me wonder how I ever lived without a trolling motor on my saltwater boat.
A trolling motor is a small electric motor used to maneuver the boat while fishing. A gas-powered outboard quickly propels the boat to and from the fishing grounds. The trolling motor is less powerful and slower, but the motor spins 360 degrees so I can turn the boat quickly and accurately without the noise and commotion of a gas engine. I use my gas motor to travel to my fishing spot, then I turn off the outboard and drop the trolling motor into the water. With the small electric motor, I precisely position the boat to cast or jig more accurately.
Each trolling motor manufacturer has online tutorials and guides for choosing and fitting a trolling motor to any boat. The rule of thumb is a longer and heavier boat requires more thrust and a longer shaft.
A trolling motor isn’t designed for speed. However, a trolling motor must have enough power and torque to control the boat in adverse weather and water conditions. Garmin’s Force Kraken has a special Turbo Mode that boosts power when the going gets rough. It also uses a silent and responsive steering unit and a unique reverse gear to improve boat control and save battery power.
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With the Spirit 1.0 Evo electric sailboat motor, you can go 5.5 mph (8.8 kph) at top speed on the 21 ft RS21 sailing boat, or troll for 20 hours continuously at 2.2 mph (3.5 kph) according to our test. This electric sailboat motor with regeneration allows you to recover energy from the prop while under sail.
To get the right amount of horsepower needed to efficiently propel a sailboat, divide the displacement of the boat (in lb) by 550. You need approximately 1 HP per 550 lb of displacement or 4 HP per 2200 lb. Most sailboats don't need a motor with more than 30 HP. In this article, I'm talking about small outboard engines for sailboats.
The first step in designing an electric propulsion system is choosing the right motor size. Below is a chart that will provide general guidelines. Contact Electric Yacht, or one of our dealers, for more specific information and assistance in making a selection. Diesel "Equivalency". Some suppliers of electric propulsion have claimed an ...
Boat Size 20'-35' ... Elco Electric Motor Applies to displacement boats only patent pending 877.411.ELCO (3526) | elcomotoryachts.com * Two banks of batteries in parallel. ** This is a combination of chargers in series parallel in order to increase the current rating, the voltages stay the same.
Electric Boat Motors Are Far More Efficient Than Gas or Diesel. When it comes to efficiency, electric boat motors outshine their gas and diesel counterparts by a wide margin. Electric motors convert electrical energy into mechanical energy with an efficiency rate of up to 90 percent, significantly higher than the approximately 25 percent ...
Recommended Boat Size. Many manufacturers give this as a guide, some don't. We have used the heavier/longer boat size/length. i.e. if an XkW motor is recommended for a 4 ton boat and a 2XkW motor is recommended for a 6 ton boat, we have said that the 2XkW motor is good for all boats up to 6 tons.
Autonomy difficult to asses. Nowadays, the offer of hybrid and electric motor solutions makes it possible to cover a large part of the needs of pleasure boats with power supplies from 3 KW to 40 KW (6 to 80 HP- double for a catamaran) if you stay in low voltage (48V) or a lot more if you choose high voltage. Cf.
The typical electric propulsion system for a 10m, 6-tonne cruising yacht will usually be designed to provide around five to six hours of gentle cruising in fairly neutral currents at around 4 knots, or maybe 10 hours of motor-sailing, before requiring a charge. Unlike a car, however, a boat can have solar panels on its deck, coachroof and arch ...
The power necessary to move a boat at a desired speed or to with headwinds depends on many factors : Size and shape of the hull (s) and annexes, Weight, Windage …. theoretical calculations can give you an estimate of resistance/speed. Other factors can significantly influence consumption : Propeller efficiency: 50/55% if you have a good ...
Motor weight: 10.5kg. Battery weight: 9kg. Battery capacity: 1276Wh. Top speed RIB: 4.5mph. Top speed skiff: 6.0mph. Thrust: 31kg/68lbs. The Chinese firm ePropulsion has been developing its electric outboard motor range and lithium batteries for some time. We tested the Spirit 1.0 Plus and Evo, both 1kW motors with integral batteries.
Hydrogeneration creates drag of only 0.1 knot at a boat speed of 7.0 knots - so it is barely noticeable. If you can go even faster, the power generation increases exponentially (see GRAPH 1). GRAPH 1: Elan E4 Power generation prediction. (Source: Oceanvolt) LIVING ABOARD. Buying an electric-powered yacht is still far from an off-the-shelf ...
To get the right size electric outboard motor, you need to consider the boat size (weight/length), boatload, your desired speed, and the boating environment, etc. Generally speaking, a 1kw3hp electric outboard motor is enough to provide a satisfying speed and range for tenders, dinghies, and daysailers up to 1.5 tons, and 6kw10 hp electric ...
Cheoy Lee Clipper on Lake Superior. Jan 2, 2023. Sailing with an Electric Motor In 2021 we installed the QuietTorque™ 10.0 Electric Motor by Electric Yacht on our 1972 Cheoy Lee Clipper Sailboat, which we use for day charters from May through October on Lake Superior. We have been extremely satisfied with the...
A motor with both forward and reverse gears helps tremendously with docking. While there is no exact correlation between boat length and total weight, the following is a rough guideline: 1-4 HP for boats up to 20' (approximately 1000-2000lbs) 4-18 HP for boats between 20-30' (approximately 2,000-10,000lbs)
35 feet 7.9 knots (9.1mph) With an electric outboard motor, or any kind of auxiliary motor, boat speed depends on the hull type, waterline length, and total displacement weight (including passengers, food, and baggage), as well as the motor thrust. Speed factors also include the waves, current, and wind, relative to your heading.
Electric Outboard Motors. Electric Outboard Motor 5 HP. Electric Outboard Motor 9.9 HP. Electric Outboard Motor 14 HP. Electric Outboard Motor 20 HP. Electric Outboard Motor 30 HP. Electric Outboard Motor 50 HP.
2) ePropulsion Navy 6.0. If you are looking for something longer lasting than and more powerful than the Spirit 1.0 Plus, ePropulsion also offers the more powerful Navy 6.0. The Navy 6.0 is equivalent to a 10Hp engine, so it won't struggle to move a relatively big boat. The range on the Navy 6.0 is impressive.
Electric motors come in various sizes, determined by voltage based on the boat's power requirements and the terrain it will navigate. The thrust of the electric motor should match the weight of the boat and the motor combination used. Determining What Size Trolling Motor You Need. Selecting the right size trolling motor for your boat requires ...
Most small to medium-sized vessels from 3.7-4.5 metres will comfortably take a 44 or 55lb electric motor, this will provide enough thrust to push your boat through the water with ease. Larger offshore vessels have also begun to realise the benefits of having a leccy onboard, although they may require something a bit larger like an 80lb or 100lb ...
Specs. Weight: 15.5kg. Power: 600W / 0.8hp. Battery: 500Wh. Range: 11nm. Price: £1,499. Torqeedo has been making electric outboard motors for quite a while now, and their latest offering slots into the travel range of electric outboards between the 503 (1.5hp) and the 1103C (3hp). All the usual Torqeedo refinements are present and correct.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Size. 1. Boat Size and Weight: The right size of the electric outboard engine depends largely on the dimensions and weight of your boat. Stronger ...
The electric motor that best suits your boat comes down to boat size, weight and intended purpose. Selecting the perfect motor can be challenging as there are many variables, and electric motor manufacturers generally only provide basic guidelines. As a basic guide, each 100lb (45kg) of boat weight requires around 2lb of thrust.
112 - 115. 36V. 10,000 - 15,000**. 28' - 35'. 115. 36V. * These are general recommendations using common boat sizes and total boat weight (boat weight with people and gear) to help determine the minimum thrust needed. If things like wind or current are major factors where you fish, consider extra thrust to optimize motor performance.
A trolling motor is a small electric motor used to maneuver the boat while fishing. A gas-powered outboard quickly propels the boat to and from the fishing grounds. The trolling motor is less powerful and slower, but the motor spins 360 degrees so I can turn the boat quickly and accurately without the noise and commotion of a gas engine.