Outboard electric motor - what to look for?

A dinghy with an outboard electric motor is a good means of transportation, especially in conjunction with a sailboat. In recent years, the use of electric outboard motors has become especially popular. 

Outboard motors can be used not only on tenders, but also on a full-fledged sailing yacht. Motors such as ePropulsion and Torquedo are already firmly established in the market. 

In this article, we will analyze the most basic and basic points that relate to outboard electric motors. 

What speed can be reached with an outboard motor?

A powerful outboard motor can easily put out 15 knots or more. More often than not, you won't be moving at that speed under an engine, either in a boat or a tender. But still, such electric motors have a good margin of speed. 

In the case where range is more important than speed, you will not use the motor at full power. On average, a good stable speed will be about 5-7 knots. Don't forget to keep an eye on your battery life and keep that in mind when navigating the water.

Travel range under electric motor

The average range indicator is about 20 miles. However, there are exhibits on the market with which it is possible to go up to 70 miles at low speed. It's still best not to try to get the most out of your outboard friend due to the fact that the range is limited by the device's battery capacity.

It is better to buy an engine with an average range, but with a reliable battery, than with some mind-blowing range, but a weak battery. Also an important factor is the dimensions of the boat and the motor. 

Outboard Motor Power

Unlike diesel engines, electric motor power is measured in watts, not horsepower. Although you can often find a double designation of power. 

Needless to say, boat engines vary quite a lot in power. The most running motors usually have 3-10 hp on board. However, you can also find specimens with 20 hp. 

Most often, under the electric, under the fuel motor, you will develop a speed of about 5, maybe 7-8 knots. Keep in mind that if you want to cut through the waves at a speed of 15 knots, you may need a 100 hp motor. And such motors are already an order of magnitude more expensive. Clearly define the purpose of using the motor and at least a third of the models on the market will be eliminated.

What are the advantages of fuel engines?

The most important is the lack of batteries and charging. It is enough to have a canister of diesel or other fuel with you, and you are unlikely to stall somewhere. On the other hand, an electric motor will save you money in the long run.

It is also impossible not to say about the fact that fuel engines were an order of magnitude more powerful than electric ones. The key word was "were". Now the industry offers powerful electric motors at affordable prices.

The operation of electric motors will cost less, and in general, such a motor is a more environmentally friendly option. Here, of course, it is a matter of taste and law - in some reservoirs, driving a boat under a fuel engine is illegal. 

What are the advantages of electric motors?

Now such engines are cheaper than fuel ones. Electric motors are also quieter and more efficient. Despite the fact that the “loudness of operation” indicator is a very subjective indicator, if we compare the electric motor and the fuel one, then even people without a musical ear understand that the electric counterpart works almost silently. We offer fishing enthusiasts to pay special attention to this moment - under an electric motor, you are unlikely to frighten away the fish. 

Another advantage of an electric motor is its cleanliness. You can forget about fuel oil and grease on your hands, clothes and boat. Exhaust gases can also cause discomfort to people nearby, but we will not say anything about harm to nature. 

Among other things, electric motors are often simpler than their fuel counterparts. Due to their simpler design, they are also less likely to fail.

Is it possible to buy a really powerful electric motor?

Naturally. The yachting industry has just about everything you can imagine. Now there are electric motors with a capacity of 80 hp. in equivalent. Most often, such outboard motors are bought not for a dinghy, but for a full-fledged sailing or motor boat. 

As for the safety of the propeller, it is better to immediately buy a protective cover. In any case, a slight blow will not damage the screw. Now the quality of screws is an order of magnitude higher than it used to be. 

So which motor for which boat?

For a small tender, a 3-5 hp electric motor is ideal. If you have a small sailboat (weight +-6 tons), then a 10 horsepower engine may be suitable for you.

Consult with a brand representative or check the specifications for your boat and selected engine.

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27.12.2022