ePropulsion vs Torqeedo: An All-Round Comparison

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ePropulsion vs Torqeedo could be a hard choice as they have very similar design and functionality. So which one is better, Torqeedo or ePropulsion?

Today we are going to take a look at the ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 vs Torqeedo 1003 and test them in every way to help you find out which one suits you better.

Table of content:

ePropulsion vs Torqeedo

ePropulsion vs Torqeedo on History

If you are keen to electric boating, you might have already heard about Torqeedo, the German manufacturer of electric outboards who has been providing reliable electric solutions for boats for over 15 years since 2005. It is a pioneer in electric outboards.

ePropulsion, as the newcomer to electric outboards industry, was founded in 2012 and has made impressive products that provide not only excellent functionality but also great user experience. It has been trusted by growing number of users worldwide.

ePropulsion vs Torqeedo on Performance

We will compare ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 vs Torqeedo on their noise level, battery performance, weight, design, and every aspect you should care about.

#1. Noise Level

Compared with Torqeedo 1003, the Spirit 1.0 is much quieter and smoother during our test.

That’s because the ePropulsion adopts the direct-drive technology, meaning there’s no gearbox and less moving parts inside to cause the noise during operation.

Check out the noise level difference between ePropulsion vs Torqeedo in video:


(Noise Level Comparison in the Air)
(Noise Level Comparison in the Water)
ComparisonePropulsion Spirit 1.0Torqeedo 1003
Noise Level55 dB72 dB

#2. Battery Performance

For most boaters, battery is the biggest concern when switching to the electric outboards, and ePropulsion is a clear winner on the crucial specifications such as the battery capacity, running time, and charging time:

ComparisonePropulsion Spirit 1.0 PlusTorqeedo 1003C
Battery Capacity1276 Wh915 Wh
Charging Time8.5 hours10.5 hours
Running Time75 minutes55 minutes
Weight8.7 kg6 kg

And with the ePropulsion there is a 400W fast charger option, so you can have a to full charge from flat in 3 hours. Plus, the ePropulsion battery will float if dropped!

Note that a minor disadvantage of ePropulsion vs Torqeedo is that the ePropulsion batteries are heavier than the Torqeedo ones although you have 10% more battery capacity.

#3. Throttle Control

Many users have reported that the ePropulsion model is more responsive to the “throttle” control with less lag. And there is no delay when switching to reverse gear with ePropulsion.

Some users also reflected that the folding mechanism of eProplusion is better, compared with the removable tiller of Torqeedo.

ePropulsion Foldable Tiller

#5. Price

With all the benefits above, the eProplusion Spirit 1.0 Plus comes at an unexpectedly lower price than the Torqeedo Travel 1003C. You can save $400 to $600 depending on the model.

ComparisonePropulsion Spirit 1.0Torqeedo 1003CTorqeedo 1103C
Price$1999$2499$2699

You may also compare price and other specs here: ePropulsion vs Torqeedo.

#6. Remote Control

The remote control is important if you want to sit further forward for better boat trim.

With ePropulsion, you have to buy the remote version Spirit 1.0R if you want the remote control (It is wireless!). You can not just purchase the remote control and wired it into the tiller version product like the Torqeedo model.

So be sure to get the right model at the first time if you go with eProplusion.

ePropulsion Remote Control

#7. GPS Functionality

The biggest bonus of Torqeedo vs ePropulsion is probably that the Torqeedo comes with built-in GPS that gives the speed and range (in addition to the battery charge state and power draw).

However you can easily get those data by using the navigation apps on your phone.

ePropulsion vs Torqeedo: Which One to Choose

If you are considering Torqeddo 1003/1103 vs ePropulsion Spirit 1.0, the ePropulsion could be a clear winner at this power range (3 HP rated) at a lower price.

If comparing ePropulsion Navy vs Torqeedo, which falls into the horsepower range of 5 hp to 10 hp, the ePropulsion is still my first choice personally, since it costs less with practically nothing to compromise.

However if you are looking at higher horsepower electric outboards, the Torqeedo offers you a lot more options with up to 80 hp motors.