best electric motor for sailboat

All About Electric Sailboat Motors: Efficiency & Performance

Exploring the Environmental Benefits of Electric Boat Motors

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HYBRID AND ELECTRIC MARINE POWER AND PROPULSION SYSTEMS

Zero Emission

No environmental restrictions

No high voltage risk

Remote System Interface

State of the art Lithium Ion battery technology

Safe installation and operation

Instant power output for maneuverability

Zero to full torque in an instant

No waiting for engine rev to settle

No pre-start warning beep

Best quality components available

Patented Technology

Hydro power regeneration

Superior thrust efficiency and energy capture

Remote diagnostics

Low maintenance

System Solutions for a Range of Marine Activity

THE FACTS ABOUT ELECTRIC POWER, BATTERIES AND PROPULSION

Today's electric motor technology has already moved from

the open road to the open ocean.

Instant High Torque

Electric motors are in constant ‘stand by’ mode; you can engage the control lever at any time for instant forward or reverse propulsion.

Electric motors achieve instant torque with Electromotive Force while internal combustion engines need to build RPMs gradually by increasing piston firing frequency.

Hydro Generation

At sailing speeds over 6 knots Oceanvolt systems are able to generate significant power for recharging the battery bank by activating at the touch of a button.

Power regeneration increases exponentially with each additional knot of speed.

Lithium Ion batteries are superior to other battery storage technology; highest storage capacity, high effective current delivery, high charge capacity resiliency and wide temperature range performance. In today's digital age, where everything is just a click away, 1xbet mobile takes a significant chunk of the online casino services sector. Starting as an online casino service in 2007, 1xBet expanded its services in 2014 to include sports betting. Fast forward to 2018, and they marked their entry into the Indian market. Their app and website, designed in a calming blue and white hue, are not just a treat for the eyes but are also super intuitive. With a support interface that covers 50 languages, including Hindi, the platform ensures that language is no barrier to placing your bet.

Oceanvolt highly skilled technical team ensures proper installation and system-optimization.  Only the highest quality Li-Ion batteries are used - to ensure performance and safety.

For those interested in a hybrid solution, generators are a highly efficient way to extend range while at sea.

DC generators have the advantage of rapid recharging capability.

AC generators are, generally, smaller and even portable which means that the generator can be aboard only in situations where longer motoring might be required.

Battery recharging is accomplished with shore connection, hydro generation (an integrated part of all Oceanvolt systems) and/or solar panels.

In Hybrid solutions , a generator (either AC or DC) can be used to recharge batteries / extend motoring range.

Integrated components

It is essential that all system components are properly selected and installed.

Our team of highly skilled technicians ensure that all components are compatible and that system management software is optimized.

Oceanvolt blog

Oceanvolt’s upcoming boat show appearances

WHITEPAPER: HYDROGENERATION

WHITEPAPER: HORSEPOWER VS KILOWATT

Owner testimonials.

Electric Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 “Moritz”

Maxi Dolphin MD55

RM Yachts RM 1180

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The Promises and Pitfalls of an All-Electric Yacht

• By Tim Murphy
• Updated: November 8, 2021

This past October, I saw one of the most interesting exhibits in more than 500 new cruising sailboats I’ve reviewed over two decades. It was the Arcona 435Z, built in Sweden and introduced by Graham Balch of Green Yachts in San Francisco. Balch describes his business as “a new brokerage dedicated to the electric revolution on the water,” and it was the “Z” in the boat’s name, which stands for “zero emissions,” that made this boat so interesting. This was the first electric propulsion system—not hybrid but all-electric —I’d ever seen on a cruising sailboat.

Electric propulsion isn’t new. Since 1879, electric motors have propelled boats; a fleet of some four-dozen electric launches transported visitors around the 1893 Colombian Exposition in Chicago. But cruising sailboats are not launches, and the open sea is not a protected canal. When we’re using cruising boats as they’re meant to be used, they seldom end their day plugged into a shore-power outlet. Cruising boats comprise many devices —stove, refrigerator, freezer, windlass, winches, autopilot, radar, lights—whose power typically comes from a tank of fossil fuel. And today’s cruising sailors are accustomed to using diesel auxiliary power to motor through lulls or punch into headwinds and seas.

Starting about 15 years ago, we saw a wave of diesel-electric and hybrid propulsion systems on production and custom cruising boats ( see “Perpetuated Motion,” CW , March 2005 ). Both of those systems ultimately start with an onboard internal-combustion engine. A diesel-electric propulsion system relies on a running genset to directly power the electric motor that turns the propeller. A hybrid system relies on batteries to power the electric motor, plus an internal-combustion genset to recharge the batteries. One of the promises of a hybrid system is the ability to regenerate electrical power. Regeneration means using boatspeed under sail to turn the propeller, whose spinning shaft sends electrons from the electric motor back through an electronic controller to recharge the batteries. In such a system, the boat’s propeller is both an electrical load (when running under power) and a charging source (when sailing in regeneration mode).

The Arcona 435Z was different from both of these systems: It incorporates no onboard fossil-fuel engine at all. Instead, it has a bank of lithium batteries, several solar panels, and a proprietary propulsion leg that looks like a saildrive. “This boat,” Balch said, “has the very first production unit in the world of Oceanvolt’s newest electric propulsion system, called the ServoProp.”

For our sea trial, Balch was joined by Derek Rupe, CEO of Oceanvolt USA. “If you can sail the boat and you have some solar, you can go anywhere in the world, and you can make all your power underway while you go,” Rupe said. When we spoke in October 2020, he touted three high-profile sailors who were using the Oceanvolt electric propulsion system: Alex Thomson, for his Hugo Boss Open 60 Vendée Globe program; Jimmy Cornell, for his Elcano 500 expedition; and Riley Whitelum and Elayna Carausu, who had been teasing their new boat for months on their popular Sailing La Vagabonde YouTube channel.

The efficiency of Oceanvolt’s ServoProp and the regeneration from it is the promised game-changer in each of these boats. The ServoProp is a leg with a ­feathering propeller that can be set for optimal pitch in three modes: forward, reverse and regeneration.

“You don’t need fuel,” Rupe said. “You don’t need to dock; you can go anywhere you want to go and always have the power for living and propulsion.”

That’s the promise. But are there also pitfalls?

Innovation and Risk

Marine electric propulsion is an emerging technology. Compared with the mature and settled technology of diesel engines and lead-acid batteries, electric-propulsion systems—with their electronic controllers and lithium batteries—are in a stage of development best described as adolescent. Every sailor has his or her own tolerance for technical innovation. For the promise of fewer ­seconds per mile, grand-prix-racing sailors willingly trade a high risk of expensive damage to the sails, rig or the boat’s structure itself; cruising sailors, by contrast, tend to favor yearslong reliability in their equipment as they seek miles per day.

Folks who identify as early adopters take special joy in the first-wave discoveries of a new technology; if they’re clear-eyed about supporting an ongoing experiment, they see themselves as partners with the developers, accepting failures as opportunities for learning. Sailors motivated primarily by changing the trajectory of climate change might be especially willing to modify their behavior to limit their own output of greenhouse gases. Investing in any emerging technology asks you to start with a clear assessment of your own risk tolerance. We’ll return to this theme with one or two real-life examples.

The American Boat and Yacht Council, founded in 1954, sets recommended standards for systems installed on recreational boats. For decades, ABYC has published standards related to installations of diesel and gasoline engines, as well as electrical systems based around lead-acid batteries. By contrast, it was only three years ago that ABYC came out with its first electric-propulsion standard (revised July 2021). And only last year it published its first technical-information report on lithium batteries (a technical-information report is an early step toward a future standard). The takeaway is that if you need help servicing your diesel engine or electrical system built around lead-acid batteries, you can pull into any reasonable-size port and find competent technicians to help you. With electric propulsion and lithium batteries, that pool of skilled talent is significantly scarcer.

To say that a technology is mature simply means that we’ve learned to live with it, warts and all, but that it holds few remaining surprises. Certainly, diesel-propulsion and lead-acid-battery technologies each leave plenty of room for improvement. When a charge of fuel ignites in the combustion ­chamber of a diesel engine, some three-quarters of the energy is lost in heat and the mechanical inefficiencies of converting reciprocating motion to rotation. Lead-acid batteries become damaged if we routinely discharge more than half of their capacity. During charging, they’re slow to take the electrons we could deliver.

Lithium batteries are comparatively full of promise. Their power density is far greater than that of lead-acid batteries, meaning they’re much lighter for a given capacity. They’re capable of being deeply discharged, which means you can use far more of the bank’s capacity, not merely the first half. And they accept a charge much more quickly; compare that to several hours a day running an engine to keep the beers iced down.

But the pitfalls? Let’s start with ABYC TE-13, Lithium Ion Batteries. Some of its language is bracing. “Lithium ion batteries are unlike lead-acid batteries in two important respects,” the report says. “1) The electrolyte within most lithium ion batteries is flammable. 2) Under certain fault conditions, lithium ion batteries can enter a condition known as thermal runaway, which results in rapid internal heating. Once initiated, it is a self-perpetuating and exothermic reaction that can be difficult to halt.”

Thermal runaway? Difficult to halt? Self-perpetuating?

“Typically, the best approach is to remove heat as fast as possible, which is most effectively done by flooding the battery with water,” TE-13 continues, “although this may have serious consequences for the boat’s electrical systems, machinery, buoyancy, etc.”

If you were following the news in January 2013, you might remember the ­story of Japan Airlines Flight 008. Shortly after landing at Boston’s Logan Airport, a mechanic opened the aft ­electronic equipment bay of the Boeing 787-8 to find smoke and flames billowing from the auxiliary-power unit. The fire extinguisher he used didn’t put out the flames. Eventually Boston firefighters put out the fire with Halotron, but when removing the still-hissing batteries from the plane, one of the ­firefighters was burned through his ­professional protective gear.

Samsung Galaxy cellphones, MacBook Pro laptops, powered skateboards—in the past decade, these and other devices have been recalled after their lithium batteries burned up. In that period, several high-end custom boats were declared a total loss following failures from lithium batteries. In March 2021, a 78-foot Norwegian hybrid-powered tour boat, built in 2019 with a 790 kW capacity battery bank, experienced thermal runaway that kept firefighters on watch for several days after the crew safely abandoned the ship.

Yes, experts are learning a lot about how to mitigate the risks around lithium batteries. But we’re still on the learning curve.

ABYC’s TE-13 “System Design” section starts, “All lithium-ion battery ­systems should have a battery ­management system (BMS) installed to prevent damage to the battery and provide for battery shutoff if potentially dangerous conditions exist.” It defines a bank’s “safe operating envelope” according to such parameters as high- and low-voltage limits, charging and discharging temperature limits, and charging and ­discharging current limits.

Graham Balch takes these safety recommendations a step further: “To our knowledge, the BMS has to monitor at the cell level. With most batteries, the BMS monitors at the module level.” The difference? “Let’s say you have 24 cells inside the battery module, and three of them stop working. Well, the other 21 have to work harder to compensate for those three. And that’s where thermal events occur.”

Balch followed the story of the Norwegian tour boat this past spring. He believes that the battery installation in that case didn’t meet waterproofing standards: “The hypothesis is that due to water intrusion, there was reverse polarity in one or more of the cells, which is worse than cells simply not working. It means that they’re actively working against the other cells. But if the BMS is monitoring only at the module level, you wouldn’t know it.”

On the Green Yachts website, Graham lists five battery manufacturers whose BMS regimes monitor at the cell level. “If I were sailing on an electric boat, whether it be commercial or recreational, I would feel comfortable with having batteries from these five companies and no other,” he said.

The broader takeaway for today’s sailors is that lithium batteries bring their own sets of problems and solutions, which are different from those of conventional propulsion and power-supply technologies. A reasonably skilled sailor could be expected to change fuel filters or bleed a diesel engine if it shuts down in rough conditions. With lithium-ion batteries aboard, an operator needs to understand the causes and remedies of thermal runaway, and be ready to respond if the BMS shuts down the boat’s power.

Real-World Electric Cruising Boats

When we met Oceanvolt’s Derek Rupe a year ago, he and his wife had taken their all-electric boat to the Bahamas and back the previous season. Before that, he’d been installing electric-propulsion packages for six years on new Alerion 41s and other refit projects. “My real passion is on the technical side of things—installations, really getting that right. That’s half the picture. The technology is there, but it needs to be installed correctly.”

When talking to Rupe, I immediately encountered my first learning curve. I posed questions about the Oceanvolt system in amps and amp-hours; he responded in watts and kilowatt-hours. This was yet another example of the different mindset sailors of electric boats need to hold. Why? Because most cruising boats have just one or two electrical systems: DC and AC. The AC system might operate at 110 or 220 volts; the DC side might operate at 12 or 24 volts. On your own boat, that voltage is a given. From there we tend to think in terms of amps needed to power a load, and amp-hours of capacity in our battery banks. Going back to basics, the power formula tells us that power (watts) equals electrical potential (volts) times current (amps). If your boat’s electrical system is 12 volts and you know that your windlass is rated at 400 watts, it follows that the windlass is rated to draw 33 amps.

But an all-electric boat might comprise several systems at different voltages. A single battery bank might supply cabin lights at 12 volts DC; winches and windlasses at 24 volts DC; the propulsion motor at 48 volts DC; and an induction stove, microwave and television at 110 volts AC. A DC-to-DC power converter steps the voltage up or down, and an inverter changes DC to AC. Instead of translating through all those systems, the Oceanvolt monitor (and Derek Rupe) simply reports in watts coming in or going out of the bank.

“We keep all our thoughts in watts,” Rupe said. “Watts count in the AC induction. They count in the DC-to-DC converter. They count the solar in. They count the hydrogeneration in. And the ­power-management systems tracks it that way for shore-power in.

“On a boat like this, maybe I have 500 watts coming in the solar panels,” he continued. “So then I can think: ‘Well, my fridge is using 90 watts. My boat has an electric stove. When I cook a big meal, I can see that for every hour we cook, we lose about 10 to 12 minutes of our cruising range.’”

During his Bahamas cruising season, Rupe observed that on days that they were sailing, the combination of solar panels and hydroregeneration supplied all the power he and his wife needed. “When we weren’t sailing,” he said, “we found that we were losing 8 percent each day, in the difference from what the sun gave us to what we were using for the fridge, lights, charging our laptops, and all that stuff.”

Rupe’s solution? “Twice in Eleuthera and once outside Major’s, we went out and sailed laps for a couple of hours because the batteries were below 30 percent of capacity. It was good sailing, and the wind was coming over the shore, so we didn’t have any sea state. We did a couple of hot laps on nice beam reaches, and generated about 700 watts an hour.”

Of the three sailors Rupe touted in October 2020—Alex Thomson, Jimmy Cornell and the Sailing La Vagabonde couple—only Cornell can report back on his all-electric experiences with Oceanvolt. Alex Thomson ended his circumnavigation abruptly last November, just 20 days after the Vendée Globe start, when Hugo Boss collided with an object in the South Atlantic. And at press time in early fall 2021, Riley and Elayna had just recently announced the build of their new Rapido trimaran; keep an eye on their YouTube channel for more about their experiences with the Oceanvolt propulsion system.

As for Cornell—circumnavigator, World Cruising Routes author, creator of the transoceanic rally, and veteran of some 200,000 ocean miles—he suspended his planned Elcano 500 round-the-world expedition solely because of the Oceanvolt system in his new Outremer catamaran. His Aventura Zero Logs on the Cornell Sailing website, particularly the Electric Shock article posted on December 2, 2020, are essential reading for any sailor interested in sailing an electric boat. “Sailing around the world on an electric boat with zero emissions along the route of the first circumnavigation was such a tempting opportunity to do something meaningful and in tune with our concern for protecting the environment that my family agreed I should do it,” Cornell wrote. “What this passage has shown was that in spite of all our efforts to save energy, we were unable to regenerate sufficient electricity to cover consumption and top up the batteries.”

Cornell’s experience in that article is raw, and his tone in that moment bitterly disappointed. We recommend it as essential reading—not as a final rejection of the electric-boat concept or of Oceanvolt’s system, or even as an endorsement of Cornell’s own decision that the system didn’t work. I suspect that I may have arrived at the same conclusion. Yet given the same boat in the same conditions, one imagines that a new breed of sailor—a Graham Balch or a Derek Rupe—may have responded differently to the constraints imposed by an all-electric boat, as nearly every cruising sailor today habitually responds to the inconvenient constraints of diesel engines and lead-acid batteries.

“If you bring electric winches, electric heads and an induction stove, and then sail into a high-pressure system, you’ll set yourself up for failure,” Balch said. “You have to balance your power inputs and your power outputs.

“Sailing an electric boat is a return to the tradition of sailing that the crutch of a diesel engine has gotten us away from,” he added. “Magellan’s fleet got all the way around the world, and they didn’t have a diesel engine.”

Tim Murphy is a Cruising World editor-at-large and ­longtime Boat of the Year judge.

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The top of this web page is an Illustrated Guide with photos of the motors and specifications to the right. At the bottom of the page is a Sortable/Searchable Table that lets you compare motors easily. If you are going to be using the table extensively the page is best viewed on a computer rather than smartphone or tablet.

• Illustrated Guide

The motors are organized in alphabetical order by manufacturer, then by model line. For the specifications we have tried to make it a user friendly as possible. If there are 3 models in the line, we will give the specs for each model with a comma in between. If there are many models, we give a range from without lining the specs up with specific models.

• Sortable/Searchable Table

The table can be searched with any keyword – manufacturer, for instance, or can be sorted by any of the columns: Peak kiloWatt power, Continuous kiloWatt power, estimated HP equvalent, Voltage, Dimensions (Length, Width, Height), Weight, RPMs, Type of motor and cooling system (air, liquid, water), and whether it is regenerative – capable of recharging when the boat is under sail propulsion.

All specifications are taken from the manufacturers’ websites or brochures without any independent verification. There is a lot of variety in the way manufacturers detail the attributes of their products, particularly when it comes to ‘Power’. Some use peak power as the measurement, some use continuous power, and there are other variations. Some quote minimum RPMs for their motors, others quote maximum RPMs. There is also no set standard for ‘horsepower equivalent’. We have tried to present the information as close as possible to an ‘apples to apples’ comparison.

The photographs and drawings are from the manufacturers’ websites and are not shown in any consistent scale.

Power Ratings – measured in kiloWatts kW  power rating quoted is taken from the manufacturer website. Some quote only peak power or continuous power, some quote input power and output power. We have indicated what the measurement is, although in the table we have used peak power as equal to input power and continuous as equal to output. power. HP is ‘HorsePower equivalent’ so that you can get an idea of the power of the motor in comparison to a HP rating you might be more familiar with. As noted above, there is a lot of leeway in how this is interpreted. When manufacturers have provided an HP equivalent we have used that.

• IN THE TABLE , when no HP equivalent has been provided, we have used the continuous power and multiplied it by 1.3 to indicate HP equivalent. We have noted it with an asterisk * when we have done this.

Voltage  is most often referred to on the sites as simply ‘Voltage’. Some indicate nominal or peak, we have used nominal and indicated if peak is also referenced.

Current  is noted when the manufacturer supplies the information. It is not included in the table.

Torque is shown in Newton metres, Nm. A Nm is about 3/4 of a foot-pound, or conversely, a foot-pound is about 1 and 1/3 Nm.

Dimensions of the motors and shaft are shown in millimetres – mm. There are about 300 mm in 1 foot, or about 25 mm in 1 inch.

Weight is in kilograms. A kilogram is 2.2 pounds.

Motor Types 
There are advantages and disadvantages to each kind of electric motor. Some manufacturers use abbreviations to describe their motors, others use the full words. We have used whatever the manufacturer prefers, but when abbreviations are used, this is what they mean:

BLDC: BrushLess Direct Current

PMAC: Permanent Magnet Alternating Current

Information on this page updated August 12, 2024

You may also want to check our Directory of Electric Boat Motor manufacturers, dealers and distributors around the world, or the Plugboats Marketplace of electric boat motors for sale.

Manufacturers in this Buying Guide: Bellmarine • Combi • Damoto • Elco • Electric Yacht • Electrine • EPTechnologies • ePropulsion • E-TECH • Fischer Panda • GreenStar Marine • Huracan • Krautler • Lynch • Mitek • Molabo • NT Systems • Oceanvolt • Piktronik • Synapseo • TEMA • Thoosa • Torqeedo • waterworld

Click on the Manufacturer’s name or red cross on right hand side to open and close window with information and links for that company’s electric electric inboards

Click »» here to see Bellmarine motors for sale from vendors in the Plugboats Market

»» Bellmarine website (EU)          »»  Bellmarine website (USA) »» Bellmarine catalogue (EU)      »»  Bellmarine catalogue (USA)

Bellmarine is a very well established electric boat motor company with a history going back to 1999. They have now been purchased by and are merged with Transfluid, a large scale industrial motor manufacturer. Bellmarine offers a wide range of electric inboard motor configurations, both direct drive shaft and reduction geared. They range from 2 kW to 130kW and come in four model lines: the straight drive Drivemaster, dual motor ModularMaster, geared Thrustmaster and high power Shaftmaster. They are sold as complete systems with optional extras available.

Bellmarine DriveMaster Air Cooled Series 9 Models: DriveMaster 2A, 5A, 7A, 8A, 10A, 15A, 25A, 35A, 50A

• kW : Peak: From 2kW – 50kW | Continuous: From 1.5kW – 40kW • Voltage : 48V – Models 2A, 5A, 7A, 10A | 96V – Models 8A, 15A | 144V – Models 25A, 35A, 50A
• Motor Type : Permanent Magnet AC (PMAC)
• Cooling : Air cooled
• RPM :  1500
• Includes : Motor with mounting brackets and silent blocks • Motor with integrated thrust bearing • Vector control inverter IP65 • NMEA2000 compatible (Apply Transfluid) • Main switch and main fuse • DC-DC converter 12 Vdc • 5m cable for display, lever, key • Quick install / easy connect / plug and play
• Available : Regeneration (with upgrade to battery monitor), Control throttle, display, cooling kit, coupling, shaft with propeller
• Country of Manufacture : Netherlands/Italy
• Price : NA on website

Bellmarine DriveMaster Liquid Cooled Series 9 Models: DriveMaster 3W, 7W, 10W, 15W, 20W, 20W-EVO, 30W, 45W, 55W

• kW : Peak: From 3kW – 55kW | Continuous: From 2.5kW – 45kW • Voltage : 48V – Models 3W, 7W, 10W, 15W, 20W-EVO | 96V – Model 20W | 144V – Models 30W, 45W, 55W
• Cooling : Liquid cooled
• Includes : Motor with mounting brackets and silent blocks • Motor with integrated thrust bearing • Vector control inverter IP65 • NMEA2000 compatible (Apply Transfluid) • Main switch and main fuse • DC-DC converter 12 Vdc 5m cable for display, lever, key • Quick install / easy connect / plug and play • Inlet and outlet liquid connections
• Available : Control throttle, display, cooling kit, coupling, shaft with propeller

Bellmarine ModularMaster Series 3 Models: ModularMaster 40W-EVO, 40W, 60W

• kW : Peak: 40, 40, 60 | Continuous: 30, 30, 50 • Voltage : 48V – 40W-EVO | 96V – 40W | 144V – 60W
• Includes :  True redundancy in case of one motor failure • Aluminum made split power drive • Mounting brackets and silent blocks • Live PTO available • Vector control inverter IP65 • NMEA2000 compatible (Apply Transfluid) • Main switch and main fuse • DC-DC converter 12 Vdc • 5m cable for display, lever, key • Quick install / easy connect / plug and play • Inlet and outlet liquid connections• Closed loop liquid cooling size XL mounted aboard
• Available : control throttle, display, cooling kit, coupling, shaft with propeller
• Country of Manufacture : Netherlands / Italy

Bellmarine TorqueMaster Series 2 Air cooled Models: TorqueMaster 20A, 25A 7 Liquid cooled Models: TorqueMaster 20W-EVO, 25W, 35W, 45W, 65W, 100W, 130W

• kW : Peak: 20 – 130 | Continuous: 15 – 100 • Voltage : 48V – 20W-EVO | 96V – 20A, 25W | 144V – 25A, 35W | 288V – 65W, 100W | 384V – 130W
• Cooling : See above
• RPM :  20W-EVO – 1500, all other Models 3000
• Includes : Motor with mounting brackets and silent blocks • Drop Box with integrated thrust bearing – 225 mm offset • Vector control inverter IP65 • NMEA2000 compatible (Apply Transfluid) • Main switch and main fuse • DC-DC converter 12 Vdc • 5m cable for display, lever, key • Quick install / easy connect / plug and play • Dropbox aluminum made – no cooling needed – low noise and low vibration • Oil temperature sensor • Elastic coupling between motor and Dropbox • DIN120 output (SAE 1410 upon request) – “U” drive possible

Bellmarine ShaftMaster Series 6 Models: ShaftMaster 25W, 35W, 45W, 64W, 100W, 130W

• kW : Peak: 25kW – 130kW | Continuous: 20 – 100 • Voltage : 96V – 25W | 144V – 35W | 288V – 45W, 65W, 100W | 384V – 130W
• Motor Type : Motor Type : Permanent Magnet AC (PMAC)
• RPM :  3000
• Includes : Motor with mounting brackets and silent blocks • Live Pto available • Marine gear with integrated thrust bearing (up to 130 kW) • Oil temperature sensor • Output offset 103 mm • Elastic coupling between motor and transmission • Vector control inverter IP65 • NMEA2000 compatible (Apply Transfluid) • Main switch and main fuse • DC-DC converter 12 Vdc • 5m cable for display, lever, key • Quick install / easy connect / plug and play • Inlet and outlet liquid connections • Throttle lever (TFC) • Self priming pump (mechanical) mounted aboard • Oil-water cooler mounted aboard • Closed loop liquid cooling size XL mounted aboard

»» Combi website

Combi Outboards was founded in 1979 in Giethoorn (‘the Dutch Venice’) to supply rental boats with clean electric power. It is now a leading international supplier of electric propulsion solutions for the maritime market. Combi inboards have all of the operating components in one housing, ready to plug in to batteries, throttle and monitoring systems. Motors are available both AC asynchronous (induction) and BLDC Permanent Magnet. The two larger inboards are dual motor, and can be operated on the Master / Slave principle but can also sail on a single motor. 

Combi Inboard 5 Models: CI-3.5, CI-5, CI-7.5, CI-10, CI-16, CI-20

• kW : From 3.5kW to 20kW • Voltage : 48V • Current : From Nominal –73 / Cruising speed – 50 to Nominal – 417 / Cruising – 240 • HP : From 9HP to 33HP
• Motor Type : Brushless AC asynchronous • OR • Brushless DC Permanent Magnet (PMDC) Cooling : CI-3.5 Air cooled, all others liquid cooled
• RPM :  From 1200 to 1500
• Shaft (cm) : Can be connected to all common propeller shaft sizes
• Includes : Our systems are constructed in such a way that all components are used in a motor housing. You just need to connect only the power cables. The engine foundation is prepared so that it is easy to install.
• Country of Manufacture : Netherlands

»» Damoto website

Damoto is a Dutch developer, manufacturer and distributor of an extensive range of premium electric inboard motors from 2kW to 40kW nominal. The first model dates from 2005 with more than 3000 boats equipped with it, including recreational sloops, charter and rental boats. The motors are now released under the name Damoto eFLOW but have been well known in the international maritime industry for many years.

Damoto eFLOW Original Series 5 models: eFLOW 2.0 Air, eFLOW 2.5 Air, eFLOW 3.0 Air, eFLOW 6.0 Air, eFLOW 11.0 Air

• kW : Nominal: 2kW to 11kW | Peak: 3kW to 15kW max
• Motor Type: Brushless 3 Phase Asynchronous • Cooling: Air cooled
• IP : IP66
• Includes : stainless steel motor frame with silent blocks, motor, thrust bearing, controller in stainless steel casing incl. marine software & PC/handheld connector for motor tuning, main power contactor & fuse, controller cable with connectors (Plug-n-Play)
• Available : Displays, throttle levers, shaft couplings
• Country of Manufacture : Netherlands / Europe
• Price : Not available on website

Damoto eFLOW Liquid Original Series 8 models: eFLOW 3.0 Liquid, eFLOW 5.0 Liquid, eFLOW 10.0 Liquid, eFLOW 15.0 Liquid, eFLOW 20.0 Liquid, eFLOW 30.0 Liquid, eFLOW 40.0 Liquid Dual Motor, eFLOW 14.0 Liquid 4Hybrid Dual Shaft

• kW : Nominal 3kW to 40kW | Peak: 6kW to 80kW
• Motor Type: Brushless 3 Phase Asynchronous • Cooling: Liquid cooled
• Includes : stainless steel motor frame with silent blocks, motor with liquid inlet & outlet, thrust bearing, controller in stainless steel casing incl. marine software & PC/handheld connector for motor tuning, on-board power converter (12V) integrated in controller casing, main power contactor & fuse, controller cable with connectors (Plug-n-Play)
• Available : Displays, throttle levers, cooling kits, shaft couplings

Damoto eFLOW Air All-in-One Series 3 models: eFLOW 2.0 Air AiO, eFLOW 3.0 Air AiO, eFLOW 6.0 Air AiO

• kW : Nominal 2kW to 6kW | Peak: 6kW to 80kW
• Includes : stainless steel housing, motor with silent suspension, thrust bearing, controller module incl. marine software & PC/handheld connector for motor tuning, main power contactor & fuse, connectors on box front (Plug-n-Play), wired & tested
• Available : throttle levers, shaft couplings

»» Elco website

Elco (Elco Motor Yachts) is the oldest electric boat motor company in the world, having been started in 1893 as the the Electric Launch Company to supply electric boats for the Chicago World’s Fair. It offers a full range of outboards, inboards and hybrids. Their Plug n Play system has all wiring and active power components in a marine grade aluminum casting rated IP-65. Can be purchased from the Elco website along with batteries, options and accessories, leading to a one-price checkout. They also have a ‘ Find My Motor ‘ calculator on the site.

Elco Inboards 6 Models: EP-6, EP-12, EP-20, EP-40, EP-70, EP-100

• kW : Peak: From 4.4kW – 73.5kW | Continuous: From 2.5kW – 42.5k • Voltage : From 36Vdc to 144 Vdc • Amps : 70A – 295A • HP : 6HP – 100 HP
• Dimension s: From L: 17” / W: 16.22” / H: 15.8” to L: 35”  /  W: 18.82”  /  H: 19.25” 
• Includes : Motor and controller.
• Available : Motor mounts, shaft couplers, batteries, battery monitor, chargers, cables, and other accessories
• Country of Manufacture : USA
• Price (does not include options) : $US 7,000 – 21,000

Electric Yacht

Electric Yacht is one of the premier US suppliers of electric motors for sailboats with a  Plug-n-Play system designed for DIY installation by “ a competent boat owner using simple tools and the easy to mount Electric Yacht system “. Their systems offer regenerative power while under the sail. 10 years of proven production with over 450 installs. 3 Year Warranty.

Electric Yacht QuietTorque single motor inboards 3 Models: QT5, QT10, QT10 Sport

• kW : Input – 2.5kW – 30kW, Continuous 2kW – 8kW • Voltage : 24, 36 or 48V for Quiet Torque 5.0, all others 48V • Current : 100A – 200A • HP : 10-25
• Motor Type : PMAC (Permanent Magnet Brushless AC) • Cooling : Air cooled • IP :
• RPM : 
• Dimensions : L: 432mm, W: 245mm, H (with mountings): 342mm Adjustable mountings • Weight : 40 lbs, 70 lbs
• Includes : The motors are sold as systems with everything included except the battery, which can also be purchased from the company. The systems can be purchased directly from the website.
• Price : $US 5,000 – 9,000

Electric Yacht QuietTorque dual motor inboards 6 Models: QT20, QT30-Air-Cooled, QT30-Liquid-Cooled, QT40, QT45, QT60.0

• kW : Input – From 20kW – 60kW Continuous – From 16kW – 52kW • Voltage : 48V – QT20, QT30-Liquid-Cooled 72V – QT30-Air-Cooled, QT40 96V – QT45, QT60 • Current : NA • HP : From 25 – 80
• Motor Type : PMAC (Permanent Magnet Brushless AC) • Cooling : Air cooled – QT20, QT30-Air-Cooled, Liquid cooled – QT30-Liquid-Cooled, QT40, QT45, QT60 • IP : NA
• RPM : NA
• Torque : NA
• Dimensions : L: 673mm, W: 534mm, H (with mountings): 534mm Adjustable mountings • Weight : From 135 lbs to 200 lbs
• Price : $US 14,500 – 18,000

»» ELECTRINE website

ELECTRINE is a Korean manufacturer which has focused on maritime electrification since 2010, when the idea of electric mobility was still relatively uncommon. The company was known as LGM until 2020 and has had a consistent R&D effort for many years. They manufacture electric outboards, inboards and saildrives as well as accessories and Lithium-ion batteries using a Carbon Nano Tube heat exchanger technology. There are 7 models in the eINBOARD Line, the ZI40, ZI60, ZI90, ZI115, ZI180, ZI270 and ZI350

E-ELECTRINE e-INBOARD line 7 Models: ZI40 (shown), ZI60, ZI90, ZI115, ZI180, ZI270, ZI350

• kW : (Max): 43, 60, 110, 150, 173, 200, 250 • Operating Voltage (Vdc): 72~96, 288~384, 288~384, 288~384, 288~384, 500~738, 500~738, 500~738
• Motor Type : N/A
• RPM (Max):  8006, 7160, 10,250, 8000, 6204, 3500, 3375
• Torqu e (Max) Nm: 72, 167, 255, 251, 555, 2100, 2700
• Weight | Dimensions (kg | mm) N/A | 390 x 360 x 323, N/A | 390 x 360 x 323, 93.5 | 665 x 468 x 476, 93.5 | 665 x 468 x 475, N/A | N/A, 500 | 902 x 1200 x 733, 500 | 902 x 1200 x 733
• Country of Manufacture : Korea

EPTechnologies

»» EPTechnologies website

EPTechnologies is a complete marine propulsion provider for electric and hybrid vessels. The company specializes in custom electric and hybrid systems, but also has ‘off the shelf’ motors, including the drop-in Stern Drive unit below. The company delivers complete systems including batteries designed and built by EPTechnologies.

EPTechnologies Drop In Unit

• Voltage: 400
• Other: This motor system has been designed by EPTechnologies as a complete drop-in unit for a Mercury Sterndrive. Includes all batteries, controllers and accessories
• Country of Manufacture : Denmark
• Price : Contact EPTechnologies

EPTechnologies Electric Motor

• For boat sizes 60′-250′
• kW (Continuous) : 400 (Peak) : 700
• Torqu e (Max) Nm: 7800
• Other : Can be stacked together for 800kW or 1400kW peak

ePropulsion

Click here to view motors from ePropulsion dealers in the Plugboats Marketplace

»» ePropulsion website

ePropulsion was established in 2012 and is led by a team of technology entrepreneurs that are focused on developing uncompromising, superior products. It was the first company to launch a brushless, direct-drive electric outboard motor in the market. ePropulsion offers a portfolio of electric outboard motors – some of which offer hydrogeneration – pod drives, and inboard motors. The company is focused on products and services for all kinds of electric boats from dinghies and fishing boat to sailing boats to commercial and leisure motor vessels up to 100-feet and displacement of 200 tons.

ePropulsion I-Series T hree (3) models: I-10, I-20, I-40

• kW : 60kW to 140kW • Voltage : H-100: 540 VDC
• Motor Type : permanent magnet motor technology • Cooling : I-10 Air cooled | I-20 & I-40 Water cooled (air cooling optional) • IP : IP67
• RPM :  1500 all models
• Torque : 56 Nm | 111 Nm | 222 Nm
• Dimensions : I-10: 565 x 295 x 380 mm | I-20: 580 x 330 x 380mm | I-40 860 x 485 x 420mm • Weight : 43kg | 45kg | 75kg
• Includes : Weather & impact resistant metal housing contains integrated motor, gearbox, electronic control system, ECU, thermal management system and suspension, Smart 5” Display, ePropulsion Smart System Architecture (eSSA), Advanced driver assistance system (ADAS), Wired & tested, plug & play installation to new boat or retro-fit to existing shaft, NMEA 2000 compatible, CAN Bus communication, Fault diagnosis system & full redundancy design
• Available : Smart throttle, G102-100 battery, propeller, air-cooling, HVAC System, shaft and coupling, charger, remote data access & fleet management with IoT connectivity service
• Country of Manufacture : China
• Price : On application

ePropulsion H-Series Four (4) models available: H-60, H-85, H-100, H-140

• kW : 10kW | 20kW | 40kw • Voltage : 86~115 VDC all models
• Motor Type : permanent magnet motor technology • Cooling : Water cooled • IP : IP67 
• RPM :  H-100: 1150
• Torque : 797 Nm
• Dimensions : H-100: H 433mm  x W 433mm x D 315mm • Weight : H-100: 190kg
• Includes : Weather & anti-corrosion metal housing contains integrated motor and  gearbox, high torque density (max 2000Nm), modular design to extend range and power with extra motors, batteries and controllers, high accuracy position feedback, Boating IoT system enables remote monitoring and integrated management, Customised data for speed, power, track, mileage, safety alarm etc., NMEA 2000 compatible
• Available : Controller, remote control and display – single & dual controls, custom batteries 

»»  E-TECH website

E-TECH is a subsidiary of boatbuilder Starboats that was started in 2008 because they were dissatisfied with other electric motor offerings in the market at the time. The company has developed fixed pods, steerable pods and outboard motors that all utilize an in-water BLDC (BrushLess DC permanent magnet) pod motor in a watertight aluminum casing. The inboard motors are designed to fit any engine bed and any propeller shaft. For in-line hybrid applications, there are shaft endings on both ends of the engine to make an easy and quick in-line installation.

Click here to view motors from E-TECH dealers in the Plugboats Marketplace

E-Tech Standard Inboards 6 Models: 4WG, 7WG, 13WG, 18WG, 23WG, 35WG

• kW : From 4.3kW, 7.1, 11.9, 16.7, 21.5, 33.7 (power measured on the shaft) • Voltage : 48V, 48V, 48V (4WG, 7WG, 13WG) | 72V – 18WG | 96V – 23 WG, 144V – 35WG • HP : 6, 9.5, 16, 23, 30, 45
• Motor Type : Brushless permanent magnet BLDC • Cooling : Water cooled •  IP : 67
• RPM :  (min) From 1100, 1200, 760, 1140, 1520, 2500
• Shaft : 25mm (4WG, 7WG) or f 30mm (10WG, 15WG, 20WG), 8mm spline
• Includes : Controller, battery monitor / display, cabling, joystick (side or top mounting), integrated cooling circuit for controller with Quick-Click connections, main switch, main fuse.
• Country of Manufacture : Poland

E-Tech High Torque Inboards 4 Models: 13 Pod, 18 Pod, 23 Pod, 35 Pod

• kW : From 11.9 kW, 16.7 kW, 21.5 kW, 33.7 kW (power measured on the shaft) • Voltage : 48V, 72V, 96V, 144V • HP : ≈ 16, 23, 30, 45
• RPM :  (min) From 760, 1140, 1520, 2500
• Shaft : f 30mm, 1:10 conic

Fischer-Panda

»» Fischer-Panda website

Fischer Panda is one of the world’s best known manufacturers of marine generators but are also manufacturers of high quality electric boat motors, sometimes marketed under the ‘Whisperprop’ name. They have an “EasyBox” system that is intended to take the guesswork and complication out of purchasing electric boat motors. There are various sample configurations on their website displaying how the EasyBox system is laid out in different boats.

Fischer Panda Easybox DE-Shaft systems 5 Motors: A06-140-6-SH, A50-160-6-SH, B00-150-8-SH 10 kW, B00-150-8-SH 20 kW, B00-300-8-SH 20 kW

• kW : (continuous) 3.5kW – 20kW • Voltage : 48V • Current : • HP :
• Motor Type : PMAC • Cooling : Water
• RPM : 600 – 2500
• Torque : 28Nm – 320Nm
• Dimensions : L: 400mm – 560mm W: 270mm H: 270mm • Weight : 15kg – 96kg
• Includes : EasyBox control, GD2 control panel, throttle
• Available : Battery bank, charger, shore power connection, 230V adaptor
• Country of Manufacture : Germany

GSM Electric (formerly Greenstar Marine)

»» GSM Electric website

GreenStar Marine was founded by a group of Swedish engineers in the 1990s to develop a series of electric propulsion systems, including a patented regenerative technology. All of the company’s systems are direct drive one-gear and complete except for batteries. The website has an interactive tool that shows approximate run times for different sized boats and battery/motor configurations.

GreenStar E-Line 2 Models: E-10, E-20

• kW : Peak – 3.5kW, 5.5kW | Nominal – 2.1kW, 4.2kW • Voltage : 24V, 24V • HP : 10, 20
• Motor Type : Brushed DC • Cooling : Air cooled
• RPM :  1000, 1000
• Torque : Nominal: 20 Nm, 40Nm | Peak: 40Nm, 50Nm
• Includes : Motor mountings, control system, basic system monitor, battery charger, monitoring, speed control, shore power system, cables, propeller shaft with low friction bearings, fixed propeller
• Available : Hydrogeneration, folding propeller, extra DC/DC
• Country of Manufacture : Sweden

GreenStar P-Line 3 Models: P-10, P-20, P-35

• kW : Peak – 10kW, 10kW, 30kW | Nominal – 2.5kW, 5.5kW, 11kW • Voltage : 48V, 48V, 48V • HP : 10HP, 20HP, 35HP
• Motor Type : Brushless AC • Cooling : P-10 – Air cooled | P-20, P-35 – Water cooled • IP : 65 or higher classed components
• RPM :  1250, 1250, 1250 •
• Torque : Nominal: 20 Nm, 45Nm, 85Nm | Peak: 75Nm, 85Nm, 130 Nm
• Includes : Hydrogeneration, motor mountings, advanced control system, system monitor, battery charger, monitoring, speed control, shore power system, cables, propeller shaft with low friction bearings, fixed propeller
• Available : Folding propeller, extra DC/DC

»» Huracan website

Huracan was founded at the beginning of 2012 in Venice with the goal of building entirely electric marine motors with the highest reliability of any on the market. The Thor motor is sold in a housing that includes the controller, with throttle, displays, monitors and other accessories sold separately.

Huracan Thor NOTE : The information for Huracan is presented in a different format from other manufacturers because the Thor is the only model, which provides different power ratings at different motor speeds.

• kW : 10kW at 3000 rpm | 20kW at 4000 rpm  | 30kW at 5000 rpm | 40kW at 5500 rpm • Voltage : 220V • Current : NA • HP : NA
• Motor Type : NA • Cooling : Water cooled • IP : 69
• RPM :  3000 – 5500
• Torque : (at axles): 30Nm at 3000 rpm | 49Nm at 4000 rpm  | 56Nm at 5000 rpm | 70Nm at 5500
• Dimensions : L: 543 mm  H: 300mm W: 191mm • Weight : 40 kg
• Available :
• Country of Manufacture : Italy

»» Kräutler website

Kräutler is a long-established Austrian manufacturer of industrial electric motors. They began construction of electric boat motors in the 80’s mainly because they could not find a product that would live up to the standards of founder Oswald Kräutler. They make motors for industrial and ship use as well as recreational boats and offer a wide range of inboards for any size boat or usage. Krautler has 3 lines of electric inboard motors. The WAd and WAz lines are direct drive and run from powers of 2.0kW to 25kW (WAd) and 6kW to 37kW (WAz). The WA line is made up of motors from 30kW to 100kW, for high speed / planing boats.

Krautler WAd and WAz line WAd – 11 Models WAd 2.0AC, WAd 3.0AC, WAd 4.3AC, WAd 5.0AC, WAd 6.0AC, WAd 8AC, WAd 11.0AC, WAd 15.0AC (48V, Air), WAd 15.0AC (96V, Water), WAd 18.5AC, WAd 20.0AC WAz – 10 models WAz 6,0AC, WAz 8,0AC, WAz 11,0AC, WAz 15,0AC (Air), WAz 15,0AC (Water), Waz 18,5AC, WAz 20,0AC, WAz 25,0AC, WAz 30,0AC, WAz 37,0AC

• kW : (Output) From 2.5kW – 37kW • Voltage : 24V – 144V • Current : 104A – 292A • HP : 3.5 – 50 HP
• Motor Type : • Cooling : Air – 6,0 models to 15,0 models (WAd and Waz), Water for 18,5 models to 37,0 WAz model
• RPM :  NA
• Dimensions : • Weight :
• Includes : Controller, throttle, monitor, display, cables
• Country of Manufacture : Austria

Krautler WA High Speed line 6 Models: WA 100/30, WA 150/40, WA 350/50, WA 350/60, WA 500/80, WA 500/100

• kW : (Output) From 30kW – 100kW • Voltage : 100V – 500V • Current : NA • HP : 45 – 130 HP
• Motor Type : • Cooling : Water
• Includes : Battery, controller, throttle, monitor, display, cables

»» Lynch website

The Lynch motor was invented by Cedric Lynch in 1979 – a unique axial gap permanent magnet brushed DC motor with high efficiency. The company offers three lines – the direct drive Yellowtail, geared drive Marlin and dual motor Swordfish. Motor systems include motor in mounting frame, controller, electronics, throttle and basic battery monitor and control cables. (options available on throttles and monitors) Lynch has 3 lines of electric inboard motors: the Yellowtail, Marlin and Swordfish, although the Yellowtail ‘line’ is only one motor.

Lynch Yellowtail

• kW : Peak – 6.0kW, Continuous – 2.5kW • Voltage : 24 • Current : 120/Peak 250A • HP : 5 – 10
• Motor Type : • Axial Flux ‘Pancake’ Permanent Magnet DC • Cooling : NA • IP : NA
• RPM : 1080 • Efficiency : 88%
• Torque : 16/Peak 35Nm
• Dimensions : NA • Weight : Motor: 14 kg Control  box: 12 kg
• Includes : motor in mounting frame, controller, electronics, throttle and basic battery monitor and control cables.
• Available : options on throttles and monitors
• Country of Manufacture : UK

Lynch Marlin : Marlin 5 Single, Marlin 8 Single, Marlin 13 Single

• kW : Peak – 14kW, 14kW, 26kW • Voltage : 48V, 48V, 72VDC • Current : 140/Peak 350A, 180/Peak 350A, 200/Peak 400A • HP : 10-20, 17-25, 35-50
• RPM : 2160, 2160, 3240 • Efficiency : 90%
• Torque : 18/Peak 38Nm , 36/Peak 44Nm, 36/Peak 72/Nm
• Dimensions : NA • Weight : Motor: 21 kg • Controller: 12 kg (14kg on model 13 Single)

Lynch Swordfish : Swordfish 16V Twin, Swordfish 26V Twin

• kW : 16kW/Peak 30, 26kW/Peak 53 • Voltage : 48VDC, 72 VDC• Current : 180A/350 Peak, 200A/400 Peak • HP : 48-60, 60-75
• RPM : 2160, 3240 • Efficiency : 90%
• Torque : 72Nm/144 Peak,
• Dimensions : NA • Weight : Motor: 27 kg Controllers: 14.5 kg X 2 (29kg)
• Includes : motors in mounting frame, controller, electronics, throttle and basic battery monitor and control cables.

»» Mitek website

Mitek Srl manufactures permanent magnet synchronous electric motors that can be used both as propulsion engines and generators according to the highest quality standards for industrial and marine markets.With more than 10 years of experience, it is a flexible partner that provides competitive products and services for sustainable mobility. Its activities focus on the design, engineering and production of innovative high torque electric motors, which are lighter, smaller and more efficient.

Mitek Inboards : 6 Models: 200015, 200020, 260038, 260054, 260061, 260115

• kW (Continuous / Peak) : 10 / 15 to 85kW/Peak 115 • Voltage : 48V, 96V, 192V, 384V• Current : From 200A/310 max to 320A/600max • HP Continuous / Peak : From 14 / 20 to 114-154
• Motor Type : NA
• RPM : From 1700 to 2200
• Torque : From 88Nm/Peak 205 to 380Nm/Peak 540
• Dimensions : L: 388mm – 588mm W: 370mm H: 370mm • Weight : 32 – 69 kg
• Includes : Standalone

Click »» here to see Molabo motors for sale in the Plugboats Market

»» Molabo website

Molabo was founded in 2016 with the goal of providing safe-to-touch low-voltage e-solutions to enable sustainable mobility worldwide. To achieve this they developed the ISCAD (Intelligent Stator Cage Drive) motor technology and have been granted 10 patents worldwide with automotive and marine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) partners in Europe and China.

Molabo ISCAD V50

• kW : Peak: 80 | Continuous: 50 •  Voltage : 48V
• Motor Type : PM-SynRM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Reluctance Motor) ISCAD (Intelligent Stator Cage Drive)
• Cooling : Water: 7 l/min, max. 45°C (dual circuit cooling possible)  •  IP67
• RPM : 4350 • Efficiency : 95.6 % (Motor: 97 %, Controller: 98 %)
• Dimensions : L: 265mm, Diameter: 254mm • Weight : NA
• Includes : Available as components or compete set-up including motor, reduction gear, rubber mounts & brackets, 5″ touch display, throttle top or side mount, molaCONNECT & molaLINK (IOT), communication cable set
• Available : Battery and charger packages: LFP 36kWh, 48kWh and 12kWh additions
• Price : Motor: €19,990 ($US 21,000)  •  With all components package (excluding battery): €28,400 ($US 29,900)

Click »» here to see NT Systems motors for sale in the Plugboats Marketplace

»» NT Systems website

NT Systems was established in 2018 by a team that includes experts in boating propulsion systems, electric engineering, electric systems development, and development of hybrid propulsion for the biggest 10-20 meter hybrid fleet in the world. They have a range of compact turnkey electric propulsion systems for commercial and leisure applications with high power-to-weight ratio continuous power from 40 kW up to 450 kW. Their system includes top or side mount throttle levers and all-in-one MFD with integrated propulsion interface, navigation, entertainment, and connectivity.

NT Systems electric propulsion inboards 7 models: C40, C80, C120, C160, C200, C320, C450 NOTE : Direct Drive or Gearbox Version s Systems feature a built-in thrust bearing, allowing for direct shaft mounting and use of the propulsion system in a direct drive configuration for simplified installation. Systems are also compatible with various marine gearboxes, allowing you to adjust the output RPM and torque.

• kW : (continuous) – 40, 80, 120, 160, 200, 320, 450 • Voltage : 40, 80, 120: 400Vdc • 160, 200, 320, 450: 700Vdc
• RPM (Nominal): 3200
• Torque [Nm] (continuous / peak) : 128 / 225 • 257 / 450 • 398 / 675 • 530 / 900 • 660 / 1130 • 1060 / 1800 • 1580 / 2680
• Dimensions : Length (mm) : C40, C80: 550 • C120, C160, C200: 665 • C320: 915 • C450: 1030 • Weight (kg) : C40: 79 • C80: 85 • C120: 96 • C160: 104 • C200: 124 • C320: 195 • C450: 240
• Includes : Electric motor with built-in thrust bearing • Motor controller/inverter • Electronic control unit (ECU) • Electrical and water plugs • Cooling system: heat exchangers, pumps for inner and outer circle, water strainer, flow through expansion tank • Frame and engine mounts
• Country of Manufacture : Slovenia
• Price : depends on configuraiton

»» Oceanvolt website

Click »» here to Oceanvolt motors for sale in the Plugboats Market

Oceanvolt is one of the best known names in electric boat motors, especially for sailboats, and is a leader in regenerative / hydrogenerative props systems. There are standard systems available, the motors can be purchased separately, and the company can also do custom installations. Oceanvolt has both all-electric and hybrid systems, we have only included the all-electric systems here, and only the standard preconfigured systems.

Oceanvolt Inboard Systems with AX motors: 3 Models: Shaftdrive 3, Shaftdrive 5, Shaftdrive 8

• kW : (continuous) – 3.7kW, 5.3kW, 8.7kW • Voltage : 48 • Current : • HP :
• Motor Type : Synchronous permanent magnet electric • Cooling : Air
• RPM : 2400
• Dimensions : NA • Weight : 22kg, 28kg, 28kg
• Includes : Controller/battery communication kit, Hydrogeneration feature
• Available : Batteries, charger, propeller
• Country of Manufacture : Finland
• Price : $US 6,500 – 8,000

Oceanvolt Inboard Systems with AX3 motors: 2 Standard Systems: Shaftdrive 10, Shaftrdive 20 NOTE: The AX3 motors are 10kW motors that can be ‘stacked’ to create higher powered system, up to 40kW. i.e. the illustration below shows 1 X 10kW AX3 in the diagram but 2 X 10kW AX3s coupled to form a 20kW motor in the photograph .

• kW : 10kw, 20kW • Voltage : NA • Current : • HP : 20 – 60
• Motor Type : PMAC • Cooling : Liquid
• Includes : Battery, controller/battery communication kit, Hydrogeneration feature
• Price : $US 36,000 – 59,000 (includes Lithium battery pack – 13.3kWh/26.6kWh)

»» Piktronic website

Piktronik is an Austrian-Slovenian company working on the research, development and production of components for electrical vehicles (EV) and boats. Their inboards are available as standalones and also as complete systems.

Piktronik Motors : 7 Models: PMSM10, PMSM40 PMSM50 PMSM60 PMSM100 PMSM110 PMSM180

• kW : (continuous) From 10 to 180 • Voltage : From 30V to 307V • Current : From 205A to 370A • HP : From 13.6 to 245
• Motor Type : 3 – Phase  Permanent Magnet Synchronous ( PMSM ) • Cooling : Water cooled • IP :
• RPM : From 1200 to 3600
• Torque : From 80Nm – 555Nm
• Dimensions : From L: 431mm W: 220mm H: 220mm to L: 565mm W: 396 H: 396mm • Weight : From 45kg to 171kg
• Includes : See Piktronik systems below
• Country of Manufacture : Austria/Slovenia

Piktronik Systems : All of the motor power sizes above are available as complete systems. System includes:

• Display, control and battery monitoring unit 
• DC-DC converter
• Battery chargers
• Wire harness, Distribution box, battery fuses and contactors, FI-Box, Ignition switch, User guide

»» Synapseo website

Synapseo was founded by a group of passionate sailors who have a common interest in making our oceans, seas and rivers great again. They have developed the KYWAT, an adaptive in-board solution to easily replace old diesel or gasoline engines. It is available in five models with power outputs from 4kW to 20 kW. The have output shaft diameter of 25mm to 30mm and mounting brackets hat adapt to all standard engine cradles. All motors have hydrogeneration / regeneration.

Synapseo Motors : 5 Models: AE-10, AE16, AE24, AE36, AE60

• kW : 4kw, 6kW, 10kW, 16kW, 20kW • Voltage : AE-10 – AE36: 48V, AR60: 72C • HP : 10, 16, 24, 26, 60
• Dimensions (mm): • AE-10 – AE24: W: 400 L:630 H: 440, AE 36 and AE60: W: 448 L:742 H: 512
• Includes : Control panel, digital throttle, power cables, coupling, four silencing blocks.
• Country of Manufacture : France

»» TEMA website

TEMA was founded in 1989 by Branimir Ruzojcic, Dr.Sc, who is still GM of the company. Its goal was to merge academic and scientific researches and engineering practical resources for offering sophisticated industrial automation products to the market. Today TEMA offers advanced motors/generators using Permanent Magnet technology ranging from 10KW to 1500KW and offers complete electric propulsion systems for all-electric, serial hybrids and parallel hybrid boats, from small leisure yachts to large commercial boats.

TEMA Motors : 5 Models: SPM132-1, SPM132-12, SPM132-2, SPM132-22, SPM132-3

• kW : 10kW – 60kW • Voltage : 48 – 450Vdc • Current : • HP :
• Motor Type : PMAC • Cooling : Air – either natural or forced air/fan
• RPM : Nominal – 3600
• Torque : (Nominal): 70 – 205Nm
• Dimensions : • From L:275mm, H: 260mm, W: 260mm to L: 552mm, H: 260mm, W: 260mm Weight : 70 – 148kg
• Includes : motor controller, marine throttle, information display, Plug and Play easy wiring
• Country of Manufacture : Croatia

»» Thoosa USA website

The Thoosa design has been in production in Denmark since 1998, originally by ASMO Marine, which became Clean eMarine in 2012. They manufacture the AC Triton motor and the DC Thoosa line, which includes four models with power ratings from 5kW to 12kW. All are geared motors. Motor and controller are sold together, with mounting brackets. Throttles and monitors are also available from the company.

Thoosa DC Motors : 4 Models: Thoosa 5000, Thoosa 7000HT, Thoosa 9000, Thoosa 12000

• kW : (continuous) – 5kW, 7kW, 9kW, 12kW •  Voltage : Thoosa 12000 is 72V, others are 48V •  Current : (Peak) 300A – 400A •  HP : 10 – 50
• Motor Type : Axial Flux ‘Pancake’ Permanent Magnet DC •  Cooling : Air cooled
• RPM : 1080 – 1270
• Torque : (Peak) 59.5Nm – 73.3Nm
• Dimensions : NA •  Weight : (System) 37kg – 47.5kg
• Includes : Motor, controller
• Available : Throttle, battery monitor
• Country of Manufacture : Denmark / US Assembly for US models

»» Torqeedo website

Torqeedo is the world’s leading manufacturer of electric outboards. The company was founded in 2004 by Dr Christoph Ballin and Dr Friedrich Böbel when they decided they could build a better electric motor than the one on the boat Dr. Ballin had just purchased. The inboards are sold as a complete system, including batteries, and each is designed for different usage: the 1400 (RPM) models for displacement sailing with heavy boats, the 1800 (RPM) models for for planing with fast boats and the 100kW 900 for large sailing yachts and heavy displacement vessels.

Torqeedo Deep Blue Inboard Line – 25i and 50i models 4 Models: Deep Blue DB25i 1400, Deep Blue DB50i 1400, Deep Blue DB25i 1800 , Deep Blue DB50i 1800

• kW : 25i models – 27.6kW/33 Peak, 50i models – 55kW66 Peak • Voltage : 360V • Current : • HP : 25i models = 40HP, 50i models = 80 HP
• Motor Type : Permanent Magnet Synchronous (PMSM) • Cooling : Water cooled • IP :
• RPM : Model number1400 and 1800 refer to RPMs
• Torque : <280Nm – 343Nm
• Dimensions : L: 680mm W: 512mm H: 376mm • Shaft sizes : 30, 35, 40mm | 11/8,11/4” • Weight : 80kg
• Includes : Complete integrated system, including on-board touchscreen computer, batteries, shafts and propeller.

Torqeedo Deep 100kW 900

• kW : 100kW continuous • Voltage : 360V • Current : • HP : 135
• Motor Type : Permanent Magnet Synchronous (PMSM) • Cooling : Water cooled
• RPM : 900 (max)
• Torque : 1060Nm
• Dimensions : NA • Shaft sizes : 30, 35, 40mm | 11/8,11/4” • Weight : 450kg (w/o battery, including electronics)

»» WaterWorld website

WaterWorld is a joint venture undertaken by two companies, De Stille Boot, a distributor specializing in electric boating and Water World Electronics, a Dutch specialist in low voltage electronics. WWE develops and produces its own printed circuit boards and complete controllers for various markets such as the building and car industry. They have joined together to “offer boat owners and -users the ultimate joy of a quiet, calm and carefree boat ride.” The company offers four direct drive electric inboard systems, with the motor and controller in one housing with adjustable engine supports as well as monitors and other accessories.

WaterWorld Inboards : 3 Models: 4.0 i , 7.5 i , 10.0 i , 15.0 i

• kW : (continuous) – 4kW, 7.5kW, 10kW, 15kW • Voltage : 48V • Current : 92V (max), 172A, 230A • HP :
• Motor Type : Asynchronous • Cooling : Air cooled • IP :
• RPM : 1450 (max), 1350, 1450
• Torque : 27Nm, 53Nm, 66Nm
• Dimensions : (Motor and controller in frame) 4.0i: L- 558mm x W-225mm x H-221mm | 7.5i and 10.0i – L-681mm x W-290mm x H-271mm • Weight : (Motor and controller in frame) 4.0i: 39kg, 7.5i and 10.0i: 76kg
• Includes : Motor, controller, thrust bearing, relay, digital colour touch screen display, throttle
• Price : $US 3,675 – 5,500 (15.0 i tba)

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• Powering your journey: Exploring the world of outboard electric motors

In the realm of marine propulsion, innovation is steering us toward cleaner and more sustainable alternatives. Enter electric outboard motors, the silent revolution that's changing the way we navigate waterways. From dinghies to small boats, these electric powerhouses are making waves in the boating world. In this article, we'll dive into the nuances of outboard electric motors, uncovering their benefits, considerations, and how they're shaping the future of marine exploration.

Electrifying the waters: Understanding outboard electric motors

Outboard electric motors are propulsion systems that use electricity to generate power, replacing traditional gasoline engines. This transition contributes to reduced emissions, less noise pollution, and a smoother boating experience.

Choosing the right electric outboard motor

Selecting the ideal electric outboard motor depends on factors such as boat size, weight, and desired performance. Evaluating power output, battery capacity, and available features helps make an informed decision.

Enhancing dinghies with electric propulsion

Dinghies play a vital role in supporting larger vessels. Electric propulsion transforms dinghies into quiet, emission-free modes of transportation that complement the marine environment.

Read our top notch articles on topics such as sailing, sailing tips and destinations in our Magazine .

Revolutionizing small boat propulsion

Electric outboard motors are well-suited for small boats engaged in activities like fishing, leisure cruising, and exploration. Their efficiency, ease of use, and minimal maintenance requirements make them a practical choice.

Comparing electric to traditional outboard motors

Electric outboard motors offer distinct advantages over traditional gasoline engines, including lower operating costs, reduced maintenance, and a cleaner boating experience.

Pros of electric outboard motors:

Environmentally friendly: Electric outboard motors produce zero emissions, reducing the ecological impact on water bodies and contributing to cleaner waterways.

Quiet operation: Electric motors operate almost silently, providing a serene and peaceful boating experience without the noise and vibration of traditional engines.

Lower operating costs: Electric motors have fewer moving parts and require less maintenance, resulting in lower long-term operating costs.

Effortless maneuverability: Electric motors offer precise control, making it easier to navigate in tight spaces and handle tricky conditions.

Instant torque: Electric motors provide instant torque and responsive acceleration, enhancing overall performance.

Reduced vibrations: Electric motors generate minimal vibrations, increasing onboard comfort and reducing fatigue during extended journeys.

Longer lifespan: Electric motors tend to have longer lifespans compared to gasoline engines, providing reliability for years to come.

Cons of electric outboard motors:

Limited range: Electric motors typically have a limited range compared to gasoline engines due to battery capacity, which may not be suitable for long-distance cruising.

Charging infrastructure: Charging electric motor batteries can be challenging in remote locations, requiring access to suitable charging infrastructure.

Initial cost: Electric outboard motors and their associated batteries can have a higher initial purchase cost compared to traditional engines.

Charging time: Charging electric motor batteries can take longer than refilling a gasoline tank, requiring careful planning for longer journeys.

Battery replacement: Over time, electric motor batteries may need replacement, which can be a significant expense.

Performance variability: Electric motor performance may vary depending on factors like battery charge level, temperature, and boat weight.

Limited selection: While electric motors are becoming more popular, there may be limited options compared to the wide range of traditional outboard motors available in the market.

Electrical power sockets bollard on pier near sea coast.

Navigating the benefits of electric motors for boats

Electric outboard motors offer reliable performance, extended cruising ranges, and compatibility with diverse boat types. The shift to electric propulsion aligns with a global commitment to sustainable practices.

Best practices for utilizing electric outboard motors

Optimizing the use of electric outboard motors involves understanding battery management, power conservation, and techniques for maximizing efficiency while on the water.

Charging and maintaining electric motors

Proper battery maintenance and charging procedures are essential for consistent performance. Understanding battery care and utilizing compatible charging systems contribute to the longevity of electric motors.

The best electric motors

Torqeedo Travel 1103 C: A reliable and powerful electric outboard motor known for its efficiency and long-range capabilities.

Minn Kota Ultrex: A versatile electric trolling motor designed for freshwater fishing, offering precise control and compatibility with various boat types.

ePropulsion Navy 6.0: A high-performance electric outboard motor suitable for both leisure and commercial use, known for its durability and innovative design.

Aquawatt 20.0: An electric inboard motor with impressive power output, suitable for larger boats and applications that require substantial thrust.

Elco EP-20: A silent and emission-free electric inboard motor suitable for sailboats and smaller motorboats, providing a smooth and efficient propulsion solution.

Haswing Cayman B: An electric trolling motor with wireless remote control and durable construction, perfect for anglers seeking a quiet and efficient boating experience.

Kräutler Electric POD: An electric pod motor designed for sailboats and yachts, offering a compact and integrated propulsion solution with minimal maintenance requirements.

Ray Electric Outboards: A range of electric outboard motors known for their reliability and simplicity, suitable for a variety of boat sizes and types.

Aquamot Eco S: An electric inboard motor designed for smaller boats and dinghies, offering a lightweight and eco-friendly propulsion option.

ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus: A portable and efficient electric outboard motor with a built-in battery, suitable for inflatables, dinghies, and small boats.

These electric motors offer a range of features, power levels, and compatibility options to cater to different boating needs and preferences.

So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our range of charter boats and head to some of our favourite sailing destinations .

FAQs about electric outboard motors

Specifications

NOTE: 10 kW @2700 rpm* Note: Battery and propeller are not included in standard delivery S2-60 = Minimum 60 minutes at full rated output, at sea water temperature 30 degrees C, ambient air temperature 50 degrees C

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Home » Blog » Gear » Buyers guide to electric boat motors (2023)

Buyers guide to electric boat motors (2023)

By Author Fiona McGlynn

Posted on Last updated: August 3, 2023

Considering making the switch to an electric boat motor? With electric vehicles now commonplace on the roads, it’s no wonder so many boaters are curious about electric boats.

While electric boat motors have been around for a while, in the last several years the technology has taken huge leaps, resulting in more powerful motors, longer-lasting batteries, and ultimately more options for recreational boat owners.

Today, many types of boats can be outfitted with an electric propulsion system including pontoon boats, sailboats, jon boats, powerboats, fishing boats, yachts, and trawlers . If your boat’s combustion engine is in the range of 1 to 135 hp (.75 to 100 kW), you should be able to find an electric substitute.

While electric boating hasn’t gone mainstream—it’s estimated that close to 2% of recreational boats are electric—it’s still a great time to be thinking about making the switch, particularly if you own a tender, sailboat, or boat on a green lake where combustion engines are prohibited.

Table of contents

• 1.1 Benefits
• 1.2 Drawbacks
• 2.1.1 Key features of electric outboard boat motors
• 2.1.2 Electric outboard manufacturers
• 2.2.1 DIY electric inboard boat motor conversion
• 2.2.2 Key features of electric inboard boat motors
• 2.2.3 Electric inboard manufacturers
• 2.3.1 Serial vs. parallel hybrids
• 2.3.2 Key features of marine hybrids
• 2.3.3 Marine hybrid manufacturers
• 2.4.1 Electric pod and sail drive manufacturers
• 3 Batteries
• 4 Ready to catch the electric boating wave?

Benefits and drawbacks of electric boat motors

Electric marine motors offer several advantages over internal combustion engines:

• They’re completely silent .
• No noxious fumes or smelly exhaust gases to deal with.
• Instant torque.  Electric propulsion provides instant torque, giving you better maneuverability and more consistent speeds in choppy conditions.
• Lightweight.  An electric setup (including motor, batteries, and generator) typically weighs less than its diesel counterpart.
• No fuel cost.  Charging an electric boat may cost a couple of dollars per charge.
• Easy to maintain.  Imagine the maintenance on an outboard with no gas, spark plugs, or oil! Electric motors are simple, more reliable, and virtually maintenance-free.
• Renewable power.  Once you’ve gone electric you can get power from renewable sources like wind generators and solar panels.
• Better for the planet.  Electric marine motors don’t produce water pollution or produce harmful emissions like carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and hydrocarbon (HC).

• Range.  The greatest drawback of electric boats is their limited range, which is often measured in the 10s of miles. Range is limited because batteries don’t have the same energy density as fuel — they can’t provide the same energy, pound-for-pound as a tank of gas. A good battery monitoring system, one that displays the remaining range in real-time, can help boaters manage energy consumption and ease range anxiety. For those who want to go farther afield, hybrid propulsion may be a better option.
• Upfront cost.  This new technology isn’t cheap. For example, a small electric outboard boat motor may sell for two-and-a-half times the cost of a gas outboard. However, prices are expected to come down as the industry reaches scale.

Types of electric boat motors

Electric outboard boat motors.

Some of the first electric outboards to hit the recreational boating market were smaller electric motors, typically used as trolling motors on fishing boats.

Today,  it’s possible to buy far more powerful electric outboard motors in the 1 to 80 hp (.75 to 60 kW) range , with ever more powerful versions hitting the market each year. In 2022, Norwegian start-up, Evoy launched the world’s most powerful outboard to date, the 225kW Storm, a 300-hp beast of an electric outboard! 

The range on electric outboard boat motors varies dramatically depending on your boat, total weight, propellor, and battery capacity .

The range also depends on how fast you want to travel. If you go slowly you’ll have a much greater range.

For instance, at a slow speed (5 knots) Torqeedo’s Deep Blue 50R , a 50 kW motor (80 hp equivalent) with a 40 kWh battery, has a listed range of 33-100 nm. But at full throttle (20-25 knots), the listed range drops to 16-20 nm.

To get a better sense of what range to expect on your boat (at both low and high speeds), you can look at the manufacturer’s website. See our list of electric outboard brands below.

One of the great things about electric outboards is that they can use renewable power sources. So, for instance, you could plug your boat into a portable solar panel while picnicking and get an extra boost for the trip home.

Some electric outboard boat motors can even generate power! Motors with hydro regeneration capabilities can charge the batteries while the boat is being towed or under sail.

While hydro regeneration is a fairly new feature for electric outboards, some manufacturers, like EPropulsion, are offering it across their outboard product line.

Key features of electric outboard boat motors

Each electric outboard motor brand has slightly different standard offerings and add-on features. Here are some of the key features and options to look for.

• Waterproof.  Some electric outboards are fully sealed and designed to withstand immersion
• Remote controls. Choose between tiller and remote throttle controls
• On-board computers . Some electric outboards come with chartplotter connectivity, navigation functions, sonar, GPS anchoring, and autopilot features
• Built-in or stand-alone batteries.  Some of the smaller motors come with built-in batteries, while the larger ones have separate battery packs
• Battery monitoring and tracking systems  that calculate and display the remaining range in real-time
• Shaft length.  Electric outboards come in both short and long shaft lengths to accommodate a variety of applications.
• Hydro regeneration capabilities 

Electric outboard manufacturers

These electric outboard boat motor manufacturers (listed in alphabetical order) range from small startups to large companies and serve the North American market.

If you’re looking to learn more about what each of these companies offers (and how they compare) I’d highly recommend checking out the  Plugboats’ electric outboard guides and directories . Jeff Butler, the editor at Plugboats has done a great job of compiling motor specifications from across the market.

Headquartered in San Diego, California,  Bixby  makes a small electric motor system for kayaks, inflatable boats, canoes, and paddleboards.

Elco  has been building electric motors for 125 years and counts the likes of Henry Ford and Thomas Edison among their customers. Their award-winning electric marine motors range from 5 to 50 hp. The company is based in Lake George, New York, and its electric motors can be found on boats around the world.

Flux Marine

Flux Marine was founded by mechanical engineering Princeton grads and offers three outboard models—a 40 hp, 70 hp, and 100 hp. In 2021, they won an award for the best new green product at the Newport International Boat Show.

Joe Grez, a consumer product developer from Washington, invented the  EP Carry , a compact, ultralight electric outboard system because he was concerned about exposing his young daughter to the carbon monoxide (CO) emissions produced by gas outboards.

The EP Carry retails for $1,600 and is a great size for small vessels like dinghies, canoes, inflatable boats, and kayaks.

ePropulsion

ePropulsion , based in Guangdong, China, manufactures 3 to 9.9-hp electric motors for sailboats, fishing boats, as well as dinghies and tenders. They all come with hydro regeneration capabilities.

Mercury Marine launched the Avator 7.5 electric outboard (3.5 hp equivalent) in early 2023. The leading outboard manufacturer is currently developing more powerful 20e and 35e models which it plans to release later this year.

In 2023, Newport , a well-known US-based inflatable boat manufacturer, launched three small outboards ranging from 1.8 to 3 hp.

If you’re into fishing, you’re probably familiar with the Minn Kota  name, derived from MINNesota North DaKOTA, prime fishing country where the company has its roots. They introduced their first electric trolling motor back in 1934 and they’ve been making them ever since.

Pure Watercraft

Pure Watercraft  was founded by CEO Andy Rebele in Seattle in 2011. Their 25 kW (50 hp) motor starts at $16,500.

Ray Electric Outboards

Ray Electric Outboards is a 3rd generation family-owned business based in Cape Coral, Fl. They manufacture one outboard model that can be operated at different power ratings ranging from 10 to 22 hp.

Stealth Electric Outboards

The 50 and 75-hp  Stealth electric outboards  were developed by Scott Masterston of Houston, Texas.

German manufacturer,  Torqeedo , has been leading the propulsion industry for years and sells some of the best e outboard motors in the 1 to 80-hp range

Vision Marine Technologies  (formerly The Canadian Electric Boat Company). 

Based in Quebec, Canada,  Vision Marine Technologies  has been in the boating industry for 25 years and produced some very innovative electric boats. In 2021, they launched E-Motion 180E, one of the most powerful electric outboards on the market.

Electric inboard boat motors

Today’s electric inboard motors can provide anywhere from  3- to a whopping 330 hp (2 to 246 kW)  and are used in a range of applications from heavy displacement vessels to fast, planing powerboats.

Similar to outboards, the range on electric inboard engines will vary based on your boat, load, battery capacity, and boat speed (among other things).

However, with an inboard electric boat motor, you have the option of a hybrid motor which can significantly extend your range. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of hybrid boat motors later in this post.

Sailors may also want to consider choosing an inboard electric motor with hydro regeneration capabilities. These electric power motors can charge the battery while the boat is under sail.

DIY electric inboard boat motor conversion

One way to save money on an electric inboard is to do the installation yourself. There are a few DIY electric inboard boat motor conversion kits available on the market.

I’ve spoken with a few sailors who’ve had great success replacing their inboard diesel engines with these electric boat motor conversion kits from  Thunderstruck-EV , an electric drive manufacturer in Santa Rosa, California.

Key features of electric inboard boat motors

Each brand has a slightly different set of electric inboard motor options. Here are some of the key features and options to look for.

• DIY conversion kits
• On-board computers  and touchscreen display
• Waterproof  system components

Electric inboard manufacturers

US manufacturer, Elco Motor Yachts , has been building electric motors for over 125 years, having gotten their start in 1893, supplying electric boats for the Chicago World’s Fair. They have seven inboards ranging from 6 to 200 hp.

Electric Yacht

Electric Yacht  is a US supplier focused on providing plug-and-play electric motors for DIY installations on sailboats. Their electric propulsion systems range from 10 to 30. They’ve had over 450 installs in 10 years of production.

Oceanvolt  is a leader in regenerative systems and their electric inboard motors are popular among sailors. They offer shaft drive systems ranging from 6 to 60 hp.

Torqeedo, a German manufacturer, is the world’s leader in electric boat motors. They have two lines of inboards, one for displacement boats and another for fast planing boats. Their Deep Blue inboard systems range from 25 kW to 100 kW (40 to 135 hp)

Hybrid systems

Hybrid systems combine an electric motor and combustion engine, so you can cruise in silence (but know you’ve got enough gas to get home). These systems offer  many of the benefits of pure electric motors, without the limited range. 

If you want  additional power for onboard luxuries  like air-conditioning, hybrids can also provide a significant increase in house-side fuel efficiency.

The downside to any hybrid solution is that the systems are far more complex . Not only do they require more equipment, but, for an optimized system, you’ll need highly sophisticated software to manage multiple power sources and switch back and forth between diesel and electric.

Unsurprisingly, the increased complexity adds cost, making hybrids less economical than either a conventional or pure electric install.

Serial vs. parallel hybrids

As with cars, there are  two types of hybrid systems: serial and parallel.  A serial hybrid uses a generator to power a large electric motor connected to the drive shaft. Whereas, a parallel hybrid has both a conventional combustion engine and a small electric motor connected to the drive shaft.

There are plenty of factors to consider when choosing between a parallel and serial system. Marine mechanics and electrical expert, Nigel Calder, does a great job of explaining  serial and parallel hybrids  in detail.

In general, serial systems may be a better fit for boats that can get most of their propulsion energy from renewable sources (e.g., a sailing catamaran). Whereas, a parallel system makes more sense on boats that regularly require sustained propulsion (e.g.,  Greenline’s power yachts ).

Key features of marine hybrids

• Parallel and serial hybrid options
• Integrated energy management  systems

Marine hybrid manufacturers

Elco motor yachts.

Elco  manufactures serial, parallel, as well as a combined serial-parallel system. Their systems can be used on sailboats, trawlers, yachts, and boats up to 85′ feet.

Hybrid Marine Ltd.

Hybrid Marine  sells parallel hybrid systems in the 10 to 230 hp range. Beta, John Deere, and Yanmar’s hybrids all incorporate Hybrid Marine technology.

Finnish manufacturer,  Oceanvolt , offers serial hybrid systems for both sailboats and powerboats.

Torqeedo  makes hybrid systems for yachts up to 120 feet as well as powerful motorboats.

Electric pod drive and sail drive

Several manufacturers are now making electric pod and sail drives. These electric drive systems are more efficient and can save space onboard.

Electric pod and sail drive manufacturers

Electric Yacht  produces a range of sail drives that can replace diesel engines up to 75 hp.

propulsion  sells a 3 hp, 6 hp, and 9.9 hp fixed pod drive.

Oceanvolt’s  sail drives range from 6 kW to 15 kW (8 to 20 hp)

Torqeedo  sells a 40 hp and 80 hp equivalent electric sail drive as well as electric pod drives in the 6 to 25 hp range.

While it’s possible to power an electric motor with a conventional lead-acid battery, there are many  good reasons to upgrade to lithium-ion batteries.

Their increased usable  capacity is roughly double  what you can get out similarly sized lead-acid battery. More battery capacity means more range—and hours of fun—on your electric boat.

They also  charge more quickly  and have a  longer life span  than lead-acid batteries. Unlike flooded lead-acid batteries, which need to be watered, lithium-ion batteries are practically maintenance-free.

The downside is that lithium-ion batteries are far  more temperature-sensitive  and can’t be charged much above 113 F (45 C) or below 32 F (0 C).

They  can also present major safety issues . Lithium-ion batteries can go into what’s known as thermal runaway—a self-heating process that can cause the battery to catch fire.

Simply put,  lithium-ion batteries are NOT a drop-in substitute for lead-acid batteries.  They need to be specially designed for the marine environment and paired with a robust battery management system.

Electric motor manufacturers often provide complete solutions (including motor, batteries, and battery management system). It’s a good idea to work with a manufacturer with extensive marine experience and an ABYC-certified technician on any installation.

The other catch is that lithium-ion batteries  cost two to four times   as much as lead-acid  batteries. However, the increased capacity and longer life span may make lithium batteries a better value option over the long run.

Ready to catch the electric boating wave?

With ever more powerful and feature-packed electric options launching each year, it’s an exciting time to be in the market for a new motor or engine. If you have any doubts about whether an electric boat motor is right for you, head to your local boat show and see, first hand, what all the buzz is about.

Fiona McGlynn is an award-winning boating writer who created Waterborne as a place to learn about living aboard and traveling the world by sailboat. She has written for boating magazines including BoatUS, SAIL, Cruising World, and Good Old Boat. She’s also a contributing editor at Good Old Boat and BoatUS Magazine. In 2017, Fiona and her husband completed a 3-year, 13,000-mile voyage from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia on their 35-foot sailboat.

Douglas McQuilken

Sunday 30th of January 2022

Great article!

For those who wish to collaborate with prospective & current electric boaters, highly recommend this forum - https://groups.io/g/electricboats

Thanks for the suggestion, Douglas!

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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

How fast can you go with an electric outboard motor?

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.

How far can you make it in a dinghy with an electric motor?

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.

How is power measured for electric motors?

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.

What are the advantages of gas motors?

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.

Electric outboard motor advantages

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.

Is it possible to buy high powered electric outboard motors?

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.

Is it easy to break a propeller if you hit something?

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.

Are 3hp motors good enough for many boats, or are they too weak for most purposes?

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.

Best electric outboard motors

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.

1) ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus

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.

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. 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.

3) Torquedo Travel 1003

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.

4) Torquedo Cruise 4.0 T

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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Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Electric yacht: What are the options for going electric?

• Will Bruton
• July 17, 2020

The options for having an electric yacht or a hybrid-electric yacht are growing in popularity; we outline the current options for those making the switch

The Arcona 380Z is a standard production yacht that has been adapted for electric propulsion. Note the increased solar panel surface area with soft panels bonded to the sails. Credit: Jukka Pakainen

A modern electric yacht can come in all shapes and sizes, from the latest high-tech speed boats with recently developed high-performance electric engines, to a traditional tender with an electric outboard on the back. Increasingly yachts are going electric too as electric engines become increasingly capable of propelling boats weighing several tonnes, and with the rigging for sails, at a reasonable speed for an acceptable length of time. 

Since the invention of the marinised engine , there has never been the capacity to store enough fuel to cover significant distances in boats that are smaller than a tanker, with fuel capacity always being the limiting factor. As such the best way to cover long distances on a boat fit for a small number of passengers was, and remains, wind power. 

For all the many green attributes that using the power of wind offers, there is no escaping that for most, fossil fuels still represent some part of sailing – whether that be a diesel engine to motor in light winds, onto and off a mooring , or to generate power for onboard electronic systems. Even a small tender used to go from ship-to-shore is often fitted with an outboard motor.

Recent advances in electric power, however, have started to make electric propulsion a reasonable alternative to fossil fuel power. Range will always be an issue but that has long been true of a traditional diesel engine. Improvements in lithuim-ion battery performance is, and likely will continue to, increase range every year. 

Spirit Yachts 44e – the ‘e’ stands for electric

Additionally electric power and batteries offer the bonus of being able to be recharged via solar panels , a wind turbine or hydroelectric power – via a hydrogenerator mounted on the stern of a boat sailing. 

At first glance the electric yacht market could appear in its infancy, but like every revolution, the will of the people is driving forward technology that only a few years ago was seen as the stuff of fantasy.

The market has responded to demand, and battery and motor technology has come on leaps and bounds, driven in part by the rapid development of electric cars.

It may not be commonplace yet, but electric yachting is here, even available ‘off the shelf’, so is it time to get onboard?

The Spirit 111 is a bold hybrid yacht, promising 30 miles motoring under electric power alone. Credit: Ian Roman/Waterline Media

A cutting edge electric yacht

Like Formula One, it’s the cutting edge of electric yachting that trickles down into mainstream production in no time at all.

For Spirit Yachts, a builder defined by a unique blend of traditional and state-of-the-art, electric yachting has been driven by demanding clients that want their yachts to be at the cutting edge.

Spirit Yachts have now produced a number of projects aimed at the all electric luxury yacht market including the Spirit 44e electric yacht and a recent project, the Spirit 111, had all the hallmarks of a superyacht project and the team had to earn their keep delivering to brief.

Managing Director Nigel Stuart explained how it works.

‘The 111 combines several cutting-edge technologies to deliver a something that’s never really been done before. A lithium-ion powered electric drive system can be charged by hydrogenation and also two high-wattage diesel generators.

‘Each generator is 22kw, meaning they can pack a lot of power into the system in a short period of time, they don’t need to run for long to fully recharge.

‘The prop is both a means of drive and power generation, so no separate hydrogenerator is needed. She will be capable of motoring under electric alone for more than 30 miles.

‘When you take on a project that’s electric, it makes you think hard about efficiency so the air conditioning, water heaters and everything in the galley has also been carefully selected to use less power.

‘For her owner there is very little compromise and some major advantages.’

Whilst it’s a long way from the average cruising yacht, the trickle-down effect of projects like the Spirit 111 can’t be underestimated.

Calypso , a Contessa 32, was the yard’s first foray into electric-powered yachts. Credit: Jeremy Rogers

Traditional electric yacht

Jeremy Rogers’ yard in Lymington is the birthplace of the iconic Contessa designs and a veritable temple to long keeled , traditional craft.

Less well known is the yard’s interest in electric auxiliary engines, something they have been involved in for more than 10 years.

Their first project, the refit of a Contessa 32 called Calypso, was an experiment by the Rogers family to see what was possible.

‘ Calypso was a test bed in the technology’s infancy,’ explains Kit Rogers of this early electric boat.

‘Inevitably, we didn’t get it all right, but we learned a lot about the dos and don’ts of electric yachting. The end result was a hybrid. The more we did, the more interesting the project became.

‘It’s not just the obvious, silent peaceful propulsion; it’s also the things you take for granted about a cruising boat. For example, no gas, we didn’t need it because we had electric power.

The yard has also worked on an electric folkboat conversion for a foreign customer.

‘The client, first and foremost, loves to sail. He sees the electric as an auxiliary option, along with the rowing and is excited to own a boat that’s quietly different.

‘He’s looking for a more connected experience and an electric boat helps him achieve it. When you’ve been motoring in and out of marinas under chugging diesel engines for years, the electric motor is something of a revelation.

Arcona has installed solar sails on its latest 380Z electric yacht

Off-the-shelf electric yacht

Perhaps the biggest indication of the future of the electric boat is the willingness of production and semi-production builders to pin their flags to the mast and embrace it.

One of the first was Hanse, who developed a version of their 315 utilising a Torquedo electric pod system.

Providing around the same amount of power as a 10 horsepower diesel, a 4.4kWh lithium ion battery pack powers the system.

Arcona, Dufour, Elan and Delphia also have electric boat models and are each taking their own direction on entering the market.

Arcona’s 380Z (the ‘Z’ stands for ‘zero emission’) fully electric boat has solar panel covered sails, capitalising on the large surface area to top up batteries under sail.

In the multihull market, there is even more scope for solar, wind and hydrogenation due to the horizontal surface area available for solar charging.

What are the options for an electric yacht?

Pure electric.

Purely electric systems can be broadly divided into two categories, high and low voltage.

The latter is the simplest option in terms of how it works and requires less specialist knowledge to install.

Kit Rogers installed a 48v Ocean Volt system in his latest project and remarked on the experience.

‘The advantage of the low voltage system is its inherent lack of complexity. Whilst we’ve coupled it with lithium ion battery technology, it can also be wired up to conventional lead acid batteries. There are pros and cons to both. What surprises everyone is the size, it’s a tiny motor and is surrounded by lots of space where the engine would normally sit.’

High voltage systems are more advanced, and utilising lithium-ion technology, their capacity is improving year on year.

For larger yachts this is generally seen as a better option.

A partnership between BMW and Torqueedo has led to the development of the Deep Blue 315v high voltage battery.

Effectively the same unit as found in the BMWi3 electric cars now often seen on the high street, the system produces a lot of power and is being used on the Spirit 111 project as well as catamarans.

Electric hybrid

One big barrier to entry exists for most potential electric yacht buyers – range.

Even the most advanced set-ups are limited to a maximum of a few hours motoring at cruising speed.

‘The electric motors excel at two things in particular,’ explained Kit Rogers.

‘The first is as auxiliary power for getting in and out of marinas. The second is engaged at low power to very efficiently motor-sail in light airs. If you want to do more than that, at present, you need to add a way of packing in the charge into the battery quickly whilst at sea; which means a generator’ .

As with electric cars and as enthusiasm builds for the technology, a hybrid option, pairing a generator with an electric drive system, is already proving popular and is probably the most practical option for those planning to cruise any distance.

Using a large generator, charge can be quickly put into the system when needed.

Once under sail, the yacht’s propeller becomes a hydro generator, meaning that diesel power is not needed day-to-day.

Solar can also be used to add additional charging capacity.

‘When a fully integrated electric hybrid system is incorporated into a cruising yacht from the outset, its possibilities really become clear,’ explains John Arnold, UK manager at Torqeedo.

‘Sailing for days on end with no engine noise is entirely possible. There are other less obvious benefits too. Electric drives have no long rotating shaft, so can be used as pod drives as well, meaning the boat is far more manoeuvrable than even a yacht equipped with bow and stern thrusters.’

Spirit Yachts 44e

How much does it cost to convert a yacht to electric power?

The technology exists, but anyone seriously considering going electric will want to crunch the numbers.

In the case of taking out a traditional inboard diesel and replacing it with an electric system, it’s relatively easy to work this out.

However, unless you include an auxiliary generator, you will be limited to battery range alone.

For this reason, we’ve done a like for like comparison for a 35ft yacht engine refit, including the cost of a generator to make the system a practical hybrid.

Unsurprisingly, at the moment, there’s a big difference in cost, but at between three to six times the cost, it is gradually coming into the realms of possibility, and prices should continue to drop as technology develops and evolves.

Ocean Volt SD10 Motor system (including batteries, charger and 6kw generator): £30,825.16

Beta Marine Beta 20hp Marine Diesel: £4,100

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Electric Outboard Motors: All You Need to Know (Best Picks in 2023)

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:

• Electric Outboards Motors Are Not Trolling Motors
• Electric Outboard Motors for Boat: What You Need to Know

Reasons to Go for Electric Outboard Motors

• Best Electric Outboard Motors (Reviews & Videos)

Hottest FAQs About Electric Outboard Motors

• Final Thoughts About Electric Outboard Motors

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.

Electric Outboard Motors Are Not Trolling Motors

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.

Electric Outboard Motor for Boat: What You Need to Know

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.

Electric Outboard Motor Runtime & Range

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

*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.

Electric Outboard Motor Speed

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.

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 Outboard Motor Price

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.

Electric Outboard Motor Battery Charging

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).

Electric Outboard Motor Weight

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.

• Silent. You will hear virtually nothing on board. There will be no disturbing noise to spook the fish. It’s only you and nature.
• Clean. There will be no greasy dirt to stain your hands, clothes, deck, and trunk during use and transportation if you get an electric outboard motor for the boat.
• Less Maintenance. Thanks to direct-drive technology, the electric outboard motor has less moving parts, reducing the time and cost of regular maintenance.
• Exhaust-free. There are no fuel or exhaust smells, so it protects the health of you and the families.

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.

Best Electric Outboard Motors in 2022

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.

#1. 3 HP Electric Outboard Motor:  ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus

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:

• Direct-drive motor, maintenance-free
• 1276Wh capacity for 4-hour economical speed runtime
• Floating battery, you’ll never lose it if it drops into the water
• 180W solar charging for extra charging
• Lightweight (42lbs including the battery)
• Folding tiller, easy to pack and carry the motor
• Digital display, you’ll always know the battery level, remaining runtime, etc
• 3 hours full recharge with quick charger
• Designed for freshwater and saltwater

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.

#2. 9.9 HP Electric Outboard Motor:  ePropulsion Navy 6.0 Evo

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.

• Customized E-Series electric outboard motor batteries
• Compatible with 3rd party battery
• Wireless control
• The digital display informs you of the real-time operation status
• Kill stop switch to keep you safe on board
• Propeller collision emergency stop

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.

Electric Outboard Motor for Boat: Final Thoughts

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.

Recent Posts

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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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Four Electric Boat Motors Compared

• By Randy Vance
• Updated: September 17, 2020

Electric marine propulsion is rapidly advancing in market share while providing a fun and unique boating experience not available from internal combustion power.

Electric Motors Then

You might be surprised to learn that electric boats have been around since 1838. Inventors from Prussia, England and America began making vessels with lead-acid batteries—tons of lead-acid batteries per vessel—to move passengers quietly and efficiently. But the internal combustion engines invented in the late 1800s were more powerful and convenient, and with the exception of Elco electric motors, electric power fell away in popularity. In 1934, Minn Kota manufactured the first electric outboard. Then, in the 1960s, bass tournament fishing popularized big-horsepower gas engines for speed, and electric trolling motors for precise boat handling. You might say the fishermen were ahead of the curve by about 60 years on hybrid boats.

Electric Motors Today

We are focusing on production models that can be easily installed by a do-it-yourselfer or OEM without special training. Lithium-ion batteries can be volatile if not properly installed, so some companies require their trained tech to do that.

Electric outboards are expensive, and while we’ve listed the purchase cost, the batteries available are too numerous to name or price, and can cost more than the motor.

A mathematic equation easily converts kilowatt-hours to horsepower, and our math revealed the calculated horsepower to be considerably less than the equivelant horsepower suggested by manufacturers.

Torqeedo provides completely integrated motor, battery and controls. Electronically controlled systems give its motors greater range per battery capacity and, similar to a fuel gauge, help operators conserve energy when needed or tell them when they can splurge on maximum throttle. The batteries are provided by BMW, but it is Torqeedo’s control system that manages output, heat and recharge operations to protect and optimize battery capacity and motor performance.

Range of Power: Outboards from Ultralight 403 at 400 W (about 1 hp) to Deep Blue at 50 kW (about 80 hp equivalent with 20 percent hole-shot boost), and inboards up to 100 kW (about 135 hp).

Most Popular Motor: Torqeedo’s Cruise 10 ($8,999) puts out 10 kW, or about 14 hp, but performs comparably to a 20 hp outboard thanks to Torqeedo’s software. In remote control, it is popular among pontoon boaters in particular, and commonly installed on pontoons used on neighborhood lakes requiring electric propulsion. Through digital controls, peak output is boosted beyond nominal output for a short time to improve acceleration at the hole shot, then returns to nominal output for optimal heat, range and speed control. A side- or top-mount controller—akin to the throttle—will cost $1,399, by the way.

Best Battery: The Torqeedo 48-5000 (5,000 Wh) lithium-ion battery ($5,159) is rated IP67 waterproof; connecting two or more in parallel extends the range.

Battery Compatibility: Compatible with any lithium-ion or AGM battery bank providing 48 volts, the Torqeedo can only operate in smart mode, measuring discharge, heat and other factors to dynamically manage power with Torqeedo batteries. With nonproprietary battery banks, Torqeedo motors mathematically, and less accurately, estimate range and consumption.

Chargers: The 2213 charger ($899) can recharge a 48-5000 battery in under 10 hours. It is rated IP65 water-resistant. The 2212-10 charger ($2,199) can recharge it in two hours.

Elco Motors

Elco has been building electric outboards for over 100 years—a figure that seems implausible to boaters who are beginning to see electric propulsion for the first time. The company’s engineering philosophy has remained the same: build plug-and-play systems, relying on battery power preferred by the customer, and design its motors to fit existing motor mounts, or provide standard transom clamps to make repowering simple and seamless.

Range of Power: Elco builds electric outboards with tiller or remote controls from 3.7 kW (about 5 hp) to 37 kW (about 50 hp). Elco’s inboards range from EP 6 to EP 100, with horsepower equivalents from 6 to 100.

Most Popular Motor: The EP 70 inboard ($15,995) can replace inboard diesel kickers and trawler motors, providing a top speed of 8 to 10 mph (7 to 8.5 knots) and a range of 23 to 41 miles. Its peak output is 51.5 kW (about 69 hp), and continuous output is 29.75 kW (about 40 hp). It needs nine 8-D 12-volt AGM batteries for a total of 108 volts. Lithium-ion batteries are also compatible in comparable volts and amps.

Best Battery: Battery banks from Lithionics are most commonly selected for new builds, and an EP-12 Victron AGM Deep Cycle 12V/220Ah bank is ideal ($5,409).

Battery Compatibility: Elco batteries are completely brand agnostic and connect with any quality battery bank providing the motor’s power demand. However, lithium-ion batteries still provide the most efficiency, along with full power to complete discharge. Even though their upfront investment is often more than double that of AGM batteries, the cost per charge is comparable while also lightening the boat and bringing better performance and range.

Chargers: The ElCon UHF3300 (1x) charger (starting at $825) takes three to four hours to restore battery banks, and the PFC 5000 fast charger reduces the time to two to three hours.

ePropulsion

This company boasts five electric propulsion systems engineered at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and entered the market in 2013. HKUST is also known as the incubator of many electronic products, including the DJI drone. Persistent engineering has brought new innovations to the marketplace.

Range of Power: The smallest offering from ePropulsion is a strap-on stand-up-paddleboard motor. Mainstream power includes two large outboards boasting 1 kW (about 1.35 hp) and 3 kW (about 4 hp) power, two pod drives of the same output, and the most popular portable Spirit 1.0 Plus.

Most Popular Motor: The Spirit 1.0 Plus ($1,999 including charger) is ePropulsion’s top-selling motor, ideal for small vessels, square-stern canoes, tenders and more. It’s a 1 kW motor that the company says offers 3 hp equivalent power with an industry-first direct-drive brushless motor. That’s a quiet arrangement, making the motor lighter and more efficient. It’s got a 75-minute run time at full speed, making 22 miles on a quickly exchangeable, integrated and included floating battery. Take a spare battery ($899) for longer range.

The Navy 3.0, ePropulsion’s latest motor, is 3 kW, or about 4 hp, though ePropulsion claims 6 hp equivalence. It’s available in tiller-steered and remote-control models. Its direct-drive, no-gear-case motor was a breakthrough in electric outboards, using a brushless motor that produced less sound and drag, and increased power and efficiency, offering a more serene experience.

Best Battery: There are three E-Series 48-volt batteries offered: The E40 ($1,200) provides 2,048 Wh, the E80 ($2,000) provides 4,096 Wh, and the E175 ($4,000) offers 8,960 Wh. The data-cable connections in ePropulsion batteries give battery management, enhancing range and speed.

Read Next: ePropulsion Lithium Iron Batteries

Chargers: Chargers available from ePropulsion are 10-, 20- and 30-amp modes ranging from $300 to $620.

Read Next: Learn About Garmin and Lowrance Electric Motors

Minn Kota Motors

Minn Kota has been making electric outboard motors since 1934, and its first model was a gear-driven, transom-mounted motor with a tiller. As time progressed, it improved motors slowly until the tournament bass-fishing craze began in the early 1960s. In that time, the motors have been popular as primary propulsion for dinghies and utility boats used for tenders, or positioning the boat for casting.

Range of Power: Models today range from simple tiller- steered motors to digitally remote-controlled motors complete with autopilot features and smartphone compatibility. The Vantage is the company’s primary propulsion motor.

Most Popular Motor: The Vantage ($1,549.99) is not Minn Kota’s most popular motor, but it’s a top contender in the boat market where electric propulsion is desired or required. The tiller-steered Vantage is ideal for use as a kicker for trolling, or propulsion for a tender or small johnboat. The variable-speed motor is digitally controlled to manage and conserve power for optimum range. Forward, neutral, reverse, and power trim to raise it are easily accessible on the tiller of this 24-volt motor. For some reason, Minn Kota does not list specs such as amps, kilowatts or watt-hours.

Best Battery: Minn Kota doesn’t offer batteries, but the motor is compatible with any battery bank producing 48 volts.

Battery Compatibility: Lead-acid, wet-cell batteries are still the most commonly used for small electric motors, but AGM (absorbed glass mat) batteries are more durable, offer more charge cycles, and are quickly replacing wet-cell batteries. Lithium-ion batteries shave 75 percent of the weight of lead-acid batteries, deliver full power to total discharge, and are actually more economical per charge cycle in spite of a 100 percent premium over AGMs.

Chargers: An MK 345 PC Precision Charger ($449.99) provides three-bank charging at 15 amps per bank.

• More: Boats , elco , electric boats , Engines , epropulsion , minn kota , torqeedo

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Best electric outboard motors: 11 top options for zero-emissions propulsion

• Electric boats
• Top stories

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.

Compact electric outboard motors for your tender

Torqeedo 603 Travel

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

Mercury Avator 7.5e

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

Thrustme Kicker

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

Haswing Ultima 3

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

ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus

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

Most powerful electric outboard motors for day boats

Yamaha Harmo

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

RAD Propulsion RAD40

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

E-Motion 180E

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

Tip of the iceberg

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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Best Electric Boat Motors: Silent Power for Smooth Sailing

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

The allure of silent, emission-free boating is undeniable, and with advancements in electric motor technology, it’s now a reality for many. Whether you’re an avid angler seeking stealthy access to prime fishing spots, a leisurely cruiser enjoying serene waterways, or a passionate environmentalist looking to reduce your carbon footprint, the best electric boat motors can make your dreams a reality. But with a diverse range of options available, choosing the right motor can be a daunting task. This comprehensive guide breaks down the key factors to consider and reviews the top performers on the market, helping you navigate the waters of electric boating with confidence.

From compact trolling motors to powerful outboard replacements, the best electric boat motors offer a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline-powered engines. We’ll delve into crucial features like thrust, battery life, speed, and ease of installation, ensuring you find the ideal motor for your boat and boating style. We’ll also explore the latest innovations in electric motor technology, including regenerative braking systems and quiet operation, and provide expert insights into maintenance and safety considerations. Join us as we navigate the world of electric boating and discover the best electric boat motors to power your next adventure.

Before diving into the reviews of the best electric boat motors, let’s take a look at some relevant products on Amazon:

Last update on 2024-09-03 at 12:47 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Table of Contents

A Glimpse into the World of Electric Boat Motors

The electric boat motor is rapidly transforming the boating experience, offering a quieter, cleaner, and more efficient alternative to traditional gasoline engines. This shift towards electrification is driven by environmental concerns, the desire for a smoother ride, and the convenience of reduced maintenance. As a result, the market for electric boat motors is expanding rapidly, with numerous manufacturers vying for a share of this burgeoning sector.

Electric boat motors come in various configurations, ranging from compact, lightweight models suitable for smaller dinghies and kayaks to powerful units capable of propelling large, high-performance vessels. They typically operate on batteries, drawing power from a variety of sources, including solar panels, onboard generators, or shore-based charging stations. This electric power source eliminates the need for gasoline, minimizing noise and emissions, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful outing while reducing your carbon footprint.

One of the key advantages of electric boat motors is their remarkable efficiency. They convert a higher percentage of energy into forward motion compared to gasoline engines, resulting in substantial savings on fuel costs. This efficiency is further enhanced by the regenerative braking feature found in many electric motors, which recaptures energy during deceleration and adds it back to the battery.

Another significant benefit of electric boat motors is their user-friendly operation. They are typically easier to maintain than traditional engines, requiring less frequent oil changes and other routine maintenance tasks. Additionally, their quiet operation enhances the overall boating experience, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility of the water without the disruptive noise of a gasoline engine.

Choosing the best electric boat motor for your needs depends on several factors, including the size and type of your boat, your desired range, and your budget. By carefully considering these factors, you can select an electric motor that perfectly suits your boating style and enhances your enjoyment of time spent on the water.

Best Electric Boat Motors – Reviewed

5 best electric boat motors: reviews.

Here are the reviews of 5 of the best electric boat motors available:

Minn Kota Ulterra 112

The Minn Kota Ulterra 112 is a top-of-the-line electric trolling motor that is perfect for serious anglers. It features a powerful 112-pound thrust motor that can easily push your boat through even the toughest waters. The Ulterra also has a built-in GPS system that allows you to create and store custom routes, making it easy to find the perfect fishing spot.

The Ulterra is also equipped with a number of other innovative features, such as a remote control, a built-in depth finder, and a digital display that shows you all of the important information you need. This is a premium electric motor with all the bells and whistles for the serious angler.

Torqeedo Cruise 4.0

The Torqeedo Cruise 4.0 is a powerful and efficient electric outboard motor that is perfect for a variety of boats. It offers a maximum thrust of 4.0 horsepower and a range of up to 30 miles on a single charge. The Cruise 4.0 is also very quiet and environmentally friendly, making it ideal for use in sensitive waters.

The Cruise 4.0 is a great option for boaters who are looking for a powerful and efficient electric outboard motor that is also environmentally friendly. It is a bit on the pricier side but it is an investment in a quality electric motor.

Evinrude E-Tec 150

The Evinrude E-Tec 150 is a powerful and efficient electric outboard motor that is perfect for a variety of boats. It features a 150-horsepower motor that can easily propel your boat through the water. The E-Tec 150 also has a number of innovative features, such as a digital display that shows you all of the important information you need.

The E-Tec 150 is a great option for boaters who are looking for a powerful and efficient electric outboard motor. It is a bit on the expensive side, but it is a premium electric motor that offers great performance and longevity.

Yamaha 60 hp Electric Outboard

The Yamaha 60 hp Electric Outboard is a powerful and efficient electric outboard motor that is perfect for a variety of boats. It features a 60-horsepower motor that can easily propel your boat through the water. The Yamaha 60 hp Electric Outboard also has a number of innovative features, such as a digital display that shows you all of the important information you need.

The Yamaha 60 hp Electric Outboard is a great option for boaters who are looking for a powerful and efficient electric outboard motor that is also environmentally friendly. It is priced competitively and offers great performance for everyday boating.

Water Snake ASP 30

The Water Snake ASP 30 is a great option for anglers who are looking for a powerful and efficient electric trolling motor that is also affordable. It features a 30-pound thrust motor that can easily push your boat through even the toughest waters. The ASP 30 also has a number of other innovative features, such as a digital display that shows you all of the important information you need.

The Water Snake ASP 30 is a great option for anglers who are looking for a powerful and efficient electric trolling motor that is also affordable. It is priced competitively and offers great performance for everyday fishing.

The Electric Revolution: Why Opt for an Electric Boat Motor?

The allure of cruising silently across tranquil waters, leaving behind no polluting fumes, is attracting boaters to the electric revolution. Electric boat motors offer a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline engines, boasting a range of benefits that are transforming the boating experience.

From environmental responsibility to economic efficiency, the reasons for choosing an electric boat motor are becoming increasingly persuasive. Electric motors are remarkably quiet, offering a peaceful and serene boating experience, ideal for fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the water. They also operate with significantly lower running costs, thanks to the lower price of electricity compared to gasoline, allowing boaters to spend more time on the water and less time at the pump.

Furthermore, electric boat motors are renowned for their ease of use and maintenance. They require less upkeep than traditional gas engines, eliminating the need for oil changes and other maintenance tasks. Moreover, electric boat motors are incredibly reliable, delivering consistent performance without the need for constant adjustments or repairs.

The demand for eco-friendly and cost-effective boating solutions is driving the development of innovative electric boat motors. From compact, portable options to powerful, high-performance models, the range of best electric boat motors available today caters to diverse boating needs. With their growing popularity and impressive performance, electric boat motors are paving the way for a cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable future on the water.

Types of Electric Boat Motors

Electric boat motors come in a variety of types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common types:

• Brushless DC Motors: These motors are highly efficient and reliable, with low maintenance requirements. They are commonly used in high-performance electric boats.
• Brushed DC Motors: These motors are less efficient than brushless motors but are often less expensive. They are typically found in smaller boats and are more prone to wear and tear.
• AC Induction Motors: These motors are known for their durability and ability to handle high loads. They are frequently used in commercial and industrial applications.

Benefits of Electric Boat Motors

Electric boat motors offer several advantages over traditional gasoline engines, including:

• Environmental Friendliness: Electric motors produce zero emissions, making them an environmentally friendly choice for boating.
• Quiet Operation: Electric motors are significantly quieter than gasoline engines, providing a more peaceful and enjoyable boating experience.
• Lower Maintenance Costs: Electric motors require less maintenance than gasoline engines, saving you money in the long run.

Considerations for Choosing the Right Electric Boat Motor

Choosing the right electric boat motor for your needs requires considering several factors, such as:

• Boat Size and Weight: The size and weight of your boat will determine the power output you need from your electric motor.
• Desired Speed and Range: The size and type of motor will influence the speed and range of your boat.
• Battery Capacity: The battery capacity will determine how long you can operate your electric motor before needing to recharge.

Your Guide to Finding the Best Electric Boat Motors

The boating world is rapidly evolving, with electric motors gaining increasing popularity. They offer a quieter, cleaner, and more efficient way to enjoy the water. But with so many options available, choosing the right electric boat motor can feel overwhelming.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the key factors to consider when making your decision. We’ll explore everything from power and thrust to battery life and maintenance, helping you find the perfect electric boat motor for your needs.

1. Power and Thrust

The first and foremost consideration is the power output and thrust your electric boat motor needs to deliver. This directly impacts your boat’s performance, speed, and ability to handle waves and currents.

Power is measured in kilowatts (kW) and represents the motor’s energy output. Thrust, on the other hand, is the force that propels the boat through the water. Higher power and thrust ratings equate to faster speeds and better maneuverability, but they also come with increased weight and energy consumption. Carefully assess the size and weight of your boat, desired cruising speed, and the type of water you’ll be navigating to determine the appropriate power and thrust levels.

2. Battery Capacity and Range

The battery’s capacity dictates how long your electric boat can run on a single charge. Measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), a higher capacity translates to a longer range.

Range is also influenced by factors such as boat size, weight, speed, and weather conditions. For shorter trips and leisurely cruising, a smaller battery might suffice. However, for longer excursions or fishing trips, you’ll need a larger battery with ample capacity. Consider the typical length of your boating adventures and the availability of charging infrastructure to make an informed decision about battery size.

3. Charging Time and Options

Charging time is another crucial factor, especially if you plan on using your electric boat regularly. The time it takes to fully charge your battery depends on the battery’s capacity, the charging source, and the type of charger used.

Fortunately, charging technologies are rapidly advancing, offering faster charging times and multiple charging options. Some electric boat motors come with onboard chargers, allowing you to plug into standard household outlets. Others require specialized chargers that can be plugged into marinas or shore power connections. Explore the various charging options and compare charging times to find the best fit for your boating routine.

4. Motor Efficiency and Energy Consumption

Electric motors are generally known for their efficiency, converting more energy into motion than their gas counterparts. However, the efficiency of different motors can vary significantly.

Look for motors with high efficiency ratings, as they will consume less energy to achieve the same performance. Efficient motors not only reduce your operating costs but also minimize environmental impact by consuming less power. Consider the efficiency rating of different motors and compare their energy consumption to find the most energy-efficient option for your needs.

5. Motor Size and Weight

The physical size and weight of the electric boat motor are important considerations, especially for smaller boats. A larger and heavier motor can impact the boat’s balance and stability, potentially affecting handling and maneuverability.

Furthermore, a heavy motor might require additional structural reinforcement on your boat. Assess the available space in your boat’s engine compartment and consider the weight distribution to ensure compatibility with your vessel.

6. Maintenance and Durability

Electric boat motors are generally considered low-maintenance compared to traditional gas engines. However, regular maintenance is still essential for optimal performance and longevity.

Check for corrosion, inspect electrical connections, and ensure proper lubrication to keep your electric motor running smoothly. Also, consider the durability of the motor’s components and its ability to withstand harsh marine conditions. Choosing a well-built motor with a proven track record of reliability will minimize maintenance requirements and ensure peace of mind.

7. Noise and Vibration Levels

One of the biggest advantages of electric boat motors is their quiet operation. Unlike gasoline engines, they don’t generate loud noises or vibrations, creating a more peaceful and enjoyable boating experience.

However, noise and vibration levels can vary depending on the motor design and construction. If you prioritize a quiet boating experience, look for motors with low decibel ratings and advanced noise reduction features. Consider the impact of noise and vibration on your boating enjoyment and choose a motor that minimizes these factors.

What are the benefits of using an electric boat motor?

Electric boat motors offer numerous advantages over traditional gasoline engines. They are significantly quieter, reducing noise pollution and providing a more peaceful boating experience. They are also much cleaner, emitting zero emissions and contributing to a healthier environment. Electric motors are generally more efficient, using less energy than gasoline engines for the same power output. Moreover, they require less maintenance, reducing long-term costs and hassles.

Another major benefit is their ease of use. Electric motors are typically simpler to operate, eliminating the need for complex engine management systems and fuel lines. They are also lighter and more compact, making installation and maneuvering easier. Finally, electric motors are becoming increasingly powerful and affordable, making them a viable option for a wider range of boat types and uses.

What factors should I consider when choosing an electric boat motor?

Choosing the right electric boat motor involves considering several factors. First, determine your boat’s size and weight. This will determine the required thrust and power output of the motor. Consider the type of boating you plan to do, whether it’s fishing, cruising, or waterskiing. Different activities require different speeds and maneuverability. Next, evaluate your budget, as electric motors range in price from budget-friendly options to high-performance models.

Finally, consider the available charging infrastructure. Electric boat motors require access to power outlets or charging stations. Evaluate the availability and convenience of charging points in your preferred boating areas. By carefully considering these factors, you can select an electric motor that meets your needs and preferences.

What are the different types of electric boat motors available?

Electric boat motors come in various types, each offering distinct advantages. Trolling motors are compact and efficient, ideal for small boats and fishing. Outboard motors are larger and more powerful, suitable for larger boats and higher speeds. Stern drive motors are integrated with the boat’s transom and provide excellent maneuverability. Pod drive motors are located beneath the hull and offer superior efficiency and low noise levels.

Ultimately, the best type of electric boat motor depends on your specific needs and the type of boat you own. Researching the features and specifications of different models will help you choose the one that aligns with your requirements.

How do I charge an electric boat motor?

Charging an electric boat motor is similar to charging an electric car. You’ll need a dedicated charging station or access to a power outlet with sufficient amperage. The charging time varies depending on the motor’s battery capacity and the charger’s output. Most electric boat motors come with a standard charging cable, but some models might require specific connectors.

It’s important to refer to your motor’s user manual for detailed instructions on charging procedures and safety precautions. Additionally, be mindful of the charging time and ensure your battery is fully charged before embarking on a trip.

What is the range of an electric boat motor?

The range of an electric boat motor depends on several factors, including the battery capacity, the motor’s power output, the boat’s size and weight, and the operating conditions. Generally, smaller boats with less powerful motors and larger batteries can achieve longer ranges. The type of boating you do also plays a role, with cruising at low speeds consuming less energy than high-speed activities.

To estimate the range of your electric boat motor, refer to the manufacturer’s specifications or consult online resources that provide range calculators. Remember that the actual range can vary depending on individual usage patterns and environmental factors.

How much does an electric boat motor cost?

The cost of an electric boat motor varies significantly depending on the type, power output, and features. Budget-friendly trolling motors can be purchased for a few hundred dollars, while high-performance outboard motors can cost several thousand dollars. It’s essential to consider your budget and the specific requirements of your boat when choosing an electric motor.

Researching different brands and models will provide insights into price ranges and allow you to compare features and value. Consider the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance associated with electric motors when evaluating their initial cost.

Are electric boat motors suitable for all types of boats?

Electric boat motors are becoming increasingly popular and suitable for a wider range of boats. While they are an excellent option for smaller boats and fishing vessels, they are also being developed for larger boats and even high-performance applications. The technology is constantly evolving, making electric motors a viable option for various boating styles and purposes.

However, it’s important to consider the power requirements and size limitations of electric motors when choosing a motor for your boat. Consulting with a marine expert or researching specific models will help you determine the suitability of an electric motor for your boat’s size and intended use.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right electric boat motor can be a daunting task, but understanding your needs and the key features of each model will guide you to the ideal option for your boating adventures. We’ve presented a diverse range of best electric boat motors , considering factors such as power, range, speed, and features. From compact trolling motors for quiet fishing trips to powerful systems for high-speed cruising, there’s an electric motor to match every boating enthusiast’s requirements.

Ultimately, the best electric boat motor for you depends on your specific needs and budget. By carefully considering the information presented, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and embark on a quieter, cleaner, and more enjoyable boating experience. Embrace the future of boating with the power and efficiency of electric motors.

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