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7 Electric Outboard Motors Making a Splash
These battery-powered motors bring sustainability and power to your boating adventures this summer.
Jake Hertz
July 1, 2024
7 Slides
ePropulsion SpiriteProbulsion
The Remigo One Outboard motor.Remigo Electric Outboards
The Remigo One Electric Outboard motor is a compact solution that is designed as a rudder for boats like dinghies. Weighing only 12 kg, the 1000W motor features an integrated 1085 Wh lithium-ion battery that delivers a thrust of 30 kg (66 lbs) and a top speed of 5 knots. By performance, it is equivalent to a 3-horsepower gasoline outboard motor. The solution chargers from any 100-240VAC or 12-24VDC source, reaching charge in just 6 hours with a standard AC charger and 12 hours from a DC charger.
The ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 EVO.ePropulsion
The ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 EVO is a notable contender in the electric outboard motor market. The motor itself weighs 10.5 kg, with the battery adding another 9 kg. The 1276 Wh lithium battery and 1kW motor deliver a thrust of 31 kg (68 lbs) and achieve top speeds of 4.5 mph on a RIB and 6.0 mph on a skiff. This battery capacity is good for up to 22 miles on a single charge.
The Spirit 1.0 EVO features a direct-drive motor, which eliminates the noise and maintenance issues associated with gearboxes. It also features regenerative charging, generating 40W at 4 knots and 300W at 10 knots.
A Torqeedo electric outboard motor.Torqueedo
The Torqeedo 1103 electric outboard motor is designed for high performance and reliability. With a motor weight of 11 kg and a 915 Wh lithium battery weighing 6 kg, it offers a balanced combination of power and portability. The 1103 model delivers a thrust of 31 kg (68 lbs) and can achieve top speeds of 4.4 mph on a RIB and 6.0 mph on a skiff. Torqeedo, a pioneer in the electric outboard industry, has equipped the 1103 with a direct-drive motor to minimize noise and maintenance, while stainless steel components and optional anodes make the 1103 suitable for saltwater use.
A Temo outboard motor.Temo
The Temo 450 is a portable electric outboard motor designed for small boats and tenders. Weighing only 4.9 kg, it features a 450W motor powered by a 290 Wh lithium-ion battery, providing up to 80 minutes of runtime. It delivers a thrust equivalent to a 2HP petrol engine, achieving speeds up to 3 knots. The motor can deliver up to 200W of propulsive power and can be charged in 3.5 hours from a 220V charging source.
The Mercury Avator 7.5e.Mercury Marine
The Mercury Avator 7.5e is an electric outboard motor that can run for up to one hour, propelling a 382-pound boat at full throttle at full throttle. Powered by a 1kWh battery, this same motor can reach 34 miles at a constant 25% throttle. With a 3-second 0-4 mph acceleration time, the motor is said to be 52% quicker than competition. Its performance is ultimately comparable to that of a 3.5 horsepower internal combustion outboard motor.
The Yamaha Harmo outboard electric motor. Yamaha
The Yamaha HARMO electric outboard system features a 48-volt power supply paired with a 3.7 kW rim-drive motor, delivering 225 pounds of static thrust equivalent to a 9.9-horsepower gas motor. It includes Helm Master EX controls for intuitive operation, integrated Digital Electric Steering (DES), and a 140-degree steering angle for precise maneuvering. The system supports single or twin configurations, suitable for boats up to 32 feet. It weighs 121 pounds and offers silent operation, quick response, and a 74-degree tilt angle to keep the impeller clear when not in use.
The Evoy Storm electric outboard motor.Evoy
Norwegian startup Evoy made a splash at the 2022 Cannes Yachting Festival with the introduction of the prototype version of the Evoy Storm, a 300hp electric outboard motor. Motorboat & Yachting magazine called it “the closest thing yet to a bolt-on electric solution.” Now in full production, the Evoy Storm uses two 63kWh Kreisel batteries and offers 55nm torque.
The Evoy Storm electric outboard motor.Evoy
Norwegian startup Evoy made a splash at the 2022 Cannes Yachting Festival with the introduction of the prototype version of the Evoy Storm, a 300hp electric outboard motor. Motorboat & Yachting magazine called it “the closest thing yet to a bolt-on electric solution.” Now in full production, the Evoy Storm uses two 63kWh Kreisel batteries and offers 55nm torque.
The gentle hum of an electric motor replacing the familiar sounds of a gasoline outboard may seem like a small change, but it represents a significant shift in marine propulsion technology. Electric outboard motors are rapidly gaining popularity among boating enthusiasts, offering a cleaner, quieter, and more efficient alternative to their fossil-fuel counterparts. As we navigate towards a more sustainable future, these innovative power plants are making waves in the boating world.
One of the most apparent advantages of electric outboards is their environmental friendliness. With zero direct emissions, these motors help preserve the delicate ecosystems of our waterways. Gone are the days of oil slicks and fuel spills; electric propulsion systems keep our waters cleaner and safer for marine life. In this way, the eco-conscious approach benefits the environment and allows boaters to access protected areas where traditional gas engines may be restricted.
The quietness of electric outboards is another game-changer. The absence of engine noise enhances the boating experience, allowing for peaceful cruising and improved communication on board. Wildlife enthusiasts and anglers particularly appreciate this feature, as it enables closer observation of marine life without disturbance.
Now, as battery technology continues to advance, the range and power of electric outboards are constantly improving. While they may not yet match the long-range capabilities of gas engines for all applications, they are increasingly viable for a wide range of recreational boating activities.
In this article, we'll examine seven electric outboard motors, their technology, and their performance to better understand the growing market of options available to boaters who want to embrace this clean, quiet revolution in marine propulsion. Read on to learn about 7 noteworthy electric outboard motors.
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