The 7 best electric outboard boat motors in the UK

Looking to make the switch to electric power on the water? Whether you're eco-conscious, want to avoid the hassle of petrol, or just fancy something quieter for your fishing trips or lake adventures, an electric outboard motor could be just what your boat needs. But with so many on the market, how do you choose the best electric outboard boat motor?

We've rounded up the best electric outboard motors available to buy in the UK, comparing specs like weight, top speed, battery size, and price. Plus, we've got tips on what to look for and some FAQs to help you decide.

Why go electric?

Before we get into the list, here’s why electric outboards are making waves in the boating industry:

• Super quiet – Ideal for fishing and wildlife spotting
• Low maintenance – No oil changes
• Eco-friendly – No emissions or fuel spills
• Perfect for inland waterways – Many UK lakes and rivers now ban petrol engines

The 7 best electric outboard boat motors in the UK

Here’s our shortlist of the best electric outboard motors you can buy in the UK, whether you’re after high performance, portability, or a budget option.

1. Torqeedo Travel 1103 C

Best electric outboard boat motor for performance and quality

• Weight: 17.3 kg (battery included)
• Speed: Up to 6 knots on a light boat
• Battery: 915 Wh lithium-ion (built-in)
• Price: £2,050

This premium German-engineered motor offers exceptional efficiency, near-silent operation (33 dB – quieter than a whisper), and the finest build quality. Its 915 Wh battery makes it perfect for short coastal trips or weekend boating tours on rivers and lakes. The built-in GPS gives real-time range estimates, speed, and battery stats right on the display. It's easy to carry and install, which makes it a top choice for sailing dinghies and small cruisers. If you want one of the best electric outboard motors with no compromises, this is it. 

Pros

• Built-in display
• Lightweight and portable
• Excellent range

Con

• Pricey

2. ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Evo

Best electric outboard motor UK for innovation

• Weight: 19.3 kg (with battery)
• Speed: 5.5 knots
• Battery: 1276 Wh lithium-ion
• Price: £1,950

A direct rival to the Torqeedo, the Spirit 1.0 Evo offers even more battery capacity at 1276 Wh. It’s slightly heavier, but with excellent build quality and clever features like hydro-generation (recharging while under sail), it stands out. Comes with a tiller or remote throttle option, and the battery is fully removable for charging off the boat. Perfect for lake boating, canals, or use as an auxiliary motor for sailboats.

Pros

• Regenerative charging
• Long battery life
• Built-in digital display

Con

• Slightly heavier than competitors

3. Haswing Protruar 1.0

Best budget electric outboard motor for calm inland use

• Weight: 10.5 kg
• Speed: Around 4 knots
• Battery: External 12V required
• Price: £350 (excluding battery)

Ideal for UK boaters after a cheap but efficient motor. The Haswing is quiet, durable, and uses minimal power. It needs a separate 12V battery (often found in caravans or fishing setups), which gives flexibility for people on a budget. With stepless speed control and an adjustable shaft, it's great for small inflatables, dinghies, or fishing kayaks suitable for fresh and saltwater.

Pros

• Budget-friendly
• Lightweight
• Stepless speed control

Cons

• No battery included
• Not ideal for stronger currents

4. Minn Kota Endura C2 55

Best small electric outboard motor for anglers

• Weight: 10 kg
• Speed: 3.5 knots
• Battery: 12V deep-cycle (not included)
• Price: £398

This classic trolling motor is a firm favourite with anglers. It has five forward and three reverse speeds, a telescoping tiller, and excellent battery efficiency, making it super reliable. Recommended to be used with a 12V deep cycle battery. While it's not the fastest on the market, it's easy to control and great for quietly positioning a boat.

Pros

• Great for fishing
• Reliable and quiet
• Very affordable

Cons

• Not for open waters
• Battery extra

5. Newport Vessels NK180

Best electric outboard motor for kayaks and small inflatables

• Weight: 8.17kg
• Speed: Up to 5 knots
• Battery: 24V lithium (not included)
• Price: £1,139

Designed specifically for kayak and small craft use, the NK180 offers up to 1.8HP equivalent power in a compact, lightweight motor. Built for speed and precision, it runs on a 24V battery and includes a brushless motor that’s incredibly quiet. Many users fit it on inflatables or SUPs using custom brackets. Great for those who want to go electric without bulk.

Pros

• Kayak-friendly
• Efficient power
• Water-resistant components

Cons

• Needs custom battery setup
• Not suitable for heavier boats

6. Savage Gear Thruster Electric Motor 55lbs

Best electric outboard motor in the UK for speed on a budget

• Weight: 8.8 kg
• Speed: Up to 4 knots
• Battery: 12V (not included)
• Price: £195 (motor only)

This lightweight, powerful, and ultra-quiet motor is designed for freshwater use on big lakes and rivers. With five forward and three reverse speeds, it offers smooth, easy handling, ideal for angling and leisure. The telescopic tiller handle and weedless propeller make it durable and less likely to get tangled in any weeds. This quiet motor means you won't spook the fish if you're out angling. It's a great value option for anyone after a reliable electric outboard on a budget. It includes a digital display showing voltage, speed, and battery power.

Pros

• Fast and affordable
• Lightweight
• Quiet

Cons

• Battery sold separately

7. ThrustMe Kicker

Best small electric outboard motor for ultra-portability

• Weight: 4.7 kg (including battery!)
• Speed: 4 knots
• Battery: 259 Wh lithium-ion
• Price: £1,150

The Kicker is the ultimate grab-and-go outboard, weighing just 4.7 kg (including its integrated battery). It's designed for dinghies, tenders, and emergency use. It comes with a remote control throttle and magnetic kill switch, and charges using a standard mains plug. It won't get you far, but it'll get you there quietly and reliably. It's also one of the lightest motors on the market.

Pros

• Incredibly lightweight
• Integrated battery
• Ideal as a tender motor

Cons

• Short range
• Pricey for size

What to consider when buying an electric outboard motor

Here are some quick tips before hitting that buy button:

• Battery included – some motors include batteries, others don't. Make sure you check what is included.
• Weight matters – especially if you'll be lifting the motor on and off regularly.
• Range vs speed – larger batteries mean longer trips, but are heavier and pricier.
• Saltwater-ready – not all motors are corrosion-proof. If you sail the coast, check whether your engine is suitable for saltwater.

FAQs: Best electric outboard boat motors

What is the best electric outboard boat motor for general use?

The Torqeedo Travel 1103 C is widely seen as one of the best electric outboard motors for its balance of power, quiet operation, and build quality.
What’s the best budget electric outboard motor? The Haswing Protruar 1.0 or Minn Kota Endura C2 55 are both great budget electric outboard motors, depending on your setup and water conditions.

Can I use these motors at sea?

Yes, but not all are designed for saltwater. The ePropulsion Spirit, Haswing Protruar 1.0 and Torqeedo models are suitable for saltwater. Always rinse after use.

How fast can electric outboard motors go?

Typically between 3–6 knots depending on boat size, battery, and water conditions.

What’s the best small electric outboard motor?

The ThrustMe Kicker is incredibly compact and ideal for tenders or ultra-light craft.

Do I need a licence to use an electric outboard in the UK?

No licence is needed for leisure boating with an electric motor on most UK inland waters. But depending on the location, you may need a boat licence or a river permit.

What’s the best electric outboard motor for a dinghy?

The Torqeedo Travel 1103 C and ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Evo are excellent for dinghies – they are lightweight, user-friendly, and have built-in batteries. The ultra-light ThrustMe Kicker is a handy alternative for shorter, calm water trips.

What’s the best electric outboard motor for an inflatable boat?

The Haswing Protruar 1.0 and Savage Gear Thruster 12V offer great value for inflatables, with quiet operation and easy handling. The ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Evo is a great choice if you need more power.

What is the most efficient marine electric motor?

The Torqeedo Travel 1103 C is known to be efficient, with a brushless motor and built-in GPS for accurate range tracking. The ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Evo is also highly efficient and can even regenerate power under sail.

What is the highest HP electric outboard motor?

Premium brands like Torqeedo and ePropulsion provide motors equivalent to 15–20 HP. These are ideal for larger boats and need 48V or higher batteries.

How do electric outboard motors work?

Electric outboards use a battery (usually 12V–48V) to power a motor that turns the propeller. They're quiet, low-maintenance, and eco-friendly, perfect for lakes, rivers, canals, and anyone looking to ditch petrol.

Choosing the right motor for your boat

Electric outboards are here to stay; there's never been a better time to invest. Whether you're looking for the best electric outboard boat motor to replace your old petrol unit or just want something compact and portable for a quiet cruise on the lake, there's a model for you.

From high-end tech like the ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Evo, to budget winners like the Savage Gear Thruster, there is something for every boater.

So go and enjoy the peace and power of electric boating. Just don't forget your charger before you relaunch in the water.

Specialist boat insurance through Insure4Boats

Once you’ve picked out your new electric outboard motor, you may want to consider protecting your boat with specialist boat insurance.

Specialist boat insurance through Insure4Boats covers the damage and theft of your boat with optional personal accident, personal effects, and European cover.

Find out more about our specialist boat insurance through Insure4Boats or get a quick online quote today.