ePropulsion Vs Torqeedo | Which Should You Buy?

ByMathew F Updated On:

Your choice between ePropulsion and Torqeedo may ultimately depend on your specific boating requirements, be it power, efficiency, affordability, or technology integration.

As the viability of electric outboard engines grows, both brands continue to innovate, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the water.

This article looks at ePropulsion and Torqeeedo as brands overall. I’ve written additional side-by-side outboard comparisons to help your buying decision:

ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 vs Torqeedo 1103

Brand Reputation and History

Epropulsion

  • Has quickly built a reputation for cost-effective and durable products.
  • Employs direct-drive technology, which they brought to market five years ahead of Torqeedo, enhancing their status as pioneers.

Torqeedo

  • Has a longer-standing reputation since its inception in 2005, often viewed as a premium brand in the electric boating market.
  • Recognized for advancing high-power models and continually expanding their product line.                   

Product Ranges: ePropulsion vs Torqeedo

Price is a primary concern when purchasing a marine motor. ePropulsion offers units with competitive pricing, often providing a lower upfront cost compared to Torqeedo models.

When assessing value, it’s imperative to consider not just the purchase price but also the operating costs and lifespan. Both brands offer lightweight models with brushless motors, which are efficient and help in reducing long-term expenses.

EpropulsionTorqeedo
Offers a concise but specialized range of motors.Boasts a broader selection, with motors reaching up to 80hp.
Focuses on innovation in sustainability and user-friendly designs.Provides versatility with models designed for different types of watercraft.

EPropulsion Product Range

ModelHorsepowerBattery TypeNew Purchase Price(batteries excluded – unless integrated with motor)
Spirit 1.0 Plus3 HPIntegrated Li-ion battery can be supplemented with an E-Series battery$1,450.00
Spirit 1.0 Evo3 HPIntegrated Li-ion battery can be supplemented with an E-Series battery$1,650.00
Spirit 1.0 Evo Remote3 HPIntegrated Li-ion battery can be supplemented with an E-Series battery$3,198.00
Navy 3.0 Evo6 HPIntegrated Li-ion battery can be supplemented with an E-Series battery$3,329.00
Navy 6.0 Evo9.9 HPIntegrated Lithium-ion$3 599,00

Torqeedo Product Range

ModelHorsepowerBattery TypeNew Purchase Price(batteries excluded – unless integrated with motor)
Ultralight 403 A/AC1.0 HPIntegrated Li-ion battery$1,999.00
Ultralight 1103 AC3.0 HPIntegrated Li-ion battery$2,899.00
Travel 6032.0 HPIntegrated Li-ion battery$2,248.00
Travel 1103 C3.0 HPIntegrated Li-ion battery$2,948.00
Cruise 3.06.0 HPExternal Power 24-3500 battery or AGM / lead-gel battery$4,298.00
Cruise 6.09.9 HPExternal Power 48-5000 battery or AGM / lead-gel battery$4,898.00
Cruise 12.0 R Torq Link25.0 HPExternal Power 48-5000 battery or AGM / lead-gel battery$10,599.00
Cruise 12.0 FP Torq Link25.0 HPExternal Power 48-5000 battery or AGM / lead-gel battery$10,599.00
Deep Blue 2540.0 HPHigh-voltage battery, part of the Deep Blue Lithium high-performance battery system$7,000.00
Deep Blue 5080.0 HPHigh-voltage battery, part of the Deep Blue Lithium high-performance battery system$8,250.00

🎓Editors Note: ePropulsion product prices of competing models (1hp to 9.9hp) are approximately 27% cheaper than the equivocate Torqeedo Product Prices.

Technical Specifications

You need to look closely at power and thrust capabilities, battery and range, as well as design and durability. These specific attributes play a crucial role in determining the suitability of each motor for your boating needs.

ePropulsion motors cover a power range of 5 hp to 10 hp, emphasizing their suitability for lighter boating activities. For higher power demands, Torqeedo offers a broader spectrum, with motors providing up to 80 hp, equating to more robust thrust and top speed capabilities. This makes Torqeedo suitable for larger vessels or open-water scenarios.

The battery and charging systems are critical to the practicality of electric outboards. ePropulsion batteries are known for their robust capacity, giving you 10% more energy storage, albeit with a slight increase in weight.

Both brands allow you to charge batteries using standard power sources, but ePropulsion has distinguished itself with solar charging options, offering a greener and more flexible solution to energy replenishment.

BrandCharging TimeSolar Charging Availability
ePropulsionVaries by modelYes
TorqeedoVaries by modelSelected models

Efficient charging times and eco-friendly charging options are constantly being improved, with both brands striving to reduce the time you spend docked and plugged in.

Durability and design ensure longevity and usability. Torqeedo motors feature variable shaft lengths to match different boat transom heights, while ePropulsion offers three shaft lengths for transoms up to 61cm.

Their constructions are resistant to corrosion and designed to withstand harsh marine environments, ensuring that your investment is protected against the elements.

On-Water Experience

ePropulsion motors are appreciated for their manoeuvrability, making them suitable for activities where precise control is crucial, such as docking and tight turns. 

Torqeedo motors typically provide a GPS built-in for navigational assistance, which can be particularly helpful when you’re cruising unfamiliar waters or tracking your journey.

The running time for both depends on the model and usage. Typically, ePropulsion boasts a longer range, which may be pivotal for extended sailing trips. For instance, the ePropulsion Navy has a cost advantage in the 5 hp to 10 hp range without compromising on running time.

ePropulsion has been a pioneer with its adoption of direct-drive technology, featuring a brushless motor system that enhances efficiency, reduces noise, and requires less maintenance.

Maintenance needs can impact the overall reliability and durability of your motor. ePropulsion motors are known for having fewer moving parts due to their direct-drive technology, possibly leading to less wear and potentially greater reliability.

Torqeedo, not to be outdone, has developed high-efficiency brushless motors across their range, enhancing performance and reliability. Both companies invest heavily in R&D to stay at the forefront of electric outboard technology.

Your maintenance regimen will be lighter with either brand, as electric motors generally require less upkeep than their gasoline counterparts.

ePropulsion motors come with a safety wristband that will shut down the motor if you fall overboard. Additionally, specific trim settings on these motors allow for more control over your vessel, minimizing risks in various water conditions.

Torqeedo’s motors are also furnished with safety mechanisms. They include a magnetic kill switch that ensures the motor stops immediately if you’re separated from the controls, promoting accident prevention.

Moreover, selective models come with an emergency stop key for added protection, giving you the peace of mind that you can quickly react to any unforeseen situations that may arise during navigation.

Both ePropulsion and Torqeedo motors are designed for saltwater use, featuring corrosion-resistant materials. However, compatibility with various boat types, and the ease of mounting and dismounting, can affect your experience.

ePropulsion’s adaptable design allows for a straightforward mounting process, often making them more versatile for different boats. Always assess whether the model you choose can integrate well with your vessel, ensuring a seamless set-up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Generally, ePropulsion electric motors are celebrated for their long-range, quiet operation, and smooth handling. On the other hand, Torqeedo has been noted for providing more powerful options, with some models delivering up to 80 hp of thrust, suitable for a wider range of boat sizes.

When equipping a dinghy, factors like size, weight, and maneuverability are key. ePropulsion motors are recognized for their ease of handling and versatility, with some models featuring a full 360º steering capability. Torqeedo also offers models suited for dinghies, providing efficient and reliable power. The choice between ePropulsion and Torqeedo for dinghy use largely depends on your specific needs such as the required power, range, and budget considerations.

In the same way that tenders used in open water will require higher-powered Torqeedo models, so will boats in open sea conditions. The highest-powered Torqeedo model produces 80hp, which should be considered the minimum specification for open waters.

At the lower end of the power range, the ePropulsion motors shine and lend themselves to anglers who want a low-cost and reliable power source. The composite aluminum lower unit will more ably resist scrapes and scratches in shallow water. Factor in the more effective solar charging system, larger battery, and longer basic range all add up to winning features.

Written by:

Mathew F

I’m the founder and chief editor here at Kite Ship. The electrification of boating is the most exciting thing to happen to the marine industry in a generation! Welcome, and I hope that we can provide the portal you need to dive into the world of electric propulsion and power.