Replace Gas with Electric Outboard: Is It Possible?

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Comparison of gas and electric outboards for small boats, exploring the feasibility of switching between the two options.

Gas vs. Electric Outboards: Can You Actually Make the Switch for Your Tiny Boat?

Apr 8, 2026

Key Takeaways

The 3HP Rule, A 1kW electric motor (like the ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus) provides thrust comparable to a 3HP gas outboard.
Maintenance-Free Life, Direct-drive brushless motors mean zero winterization, no carburetors to gum up, and up to 20,000 hours of life.
The 80/20 Rule, You can hit 80% of your top speed using only 20–40% of your throttle, effectively doubling your range.
Weight Management, A Spirit 1.0 Plus setup weighs about 42 lbs, saving you nearly 86 lbs compared to a traditional trolling motor with lead-acid batteries.
Battery Innovation, The integrated 1276Wh Spirit battery is designed to float and is waterproof, reducing the risk of permanent loss if dropped overboard during installation.

So, you’re sitting at your kitchen table with a napkin sketch of your dream micro-skiff, and the big question pops up:"Do I really need a gas motor, or is it time to join the tincancrew and go electric?".

At Tiny Boat Nation, we’ve rigged everything from 10-foot Pond Prowlers to decked-out 1648 Jon boats. We’ve run the "Derby" tests and done the "WOT" (Wide Open Throttle) math. The truth is, an Electric Outboard isn't just a "trolling motor on steroids" it’s a self-contained propulsion system that can fully replace gas if you understand the "rules of the road".

When Electric Fully Replaces Gas (The "Sweet Spot")

For most TBN builds, electric is no longer a compromise; it’s an upgrade. If your build fits these categories, you’re ready to ditch the gas can:

1. Gas-Restricted or "Electric Only" Waters

If you're tournament fishing on lakes where internal combustion is banned, high-end electrics are your only way to get to the honey hole fast.

2. The "Truck-Bed" Build

If you’re portaging a 12-foot portable jon boat or a kayak-style skiff, you need a motor that breaks down into manageable bags. TheePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus is the king here because the battery pops off and even floats if you drop it at the ramp.

3. Stealth Fishing

Whether you’re chasing bass in a Pond Prowler or stalking reds in a micro-skiff, silence is your best tool. Modern brushless motors are virtually silent compared to the "windy" whine of a Mercury Avator or the clatter of a 2-stroke.

The TBN "Outboard Derby": Which One Should You Buy?

We’ve put the top players through the ringer. Here’s the "Napkin to Nautical" breakdown:

Motor	TBN Take	Top Speed	Best Feature
ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus	Best Value. $34.21 per minute of runtime.	~6.0 mph	Floating 1276Wh Battery
Newport NT300	The Speed Demon. Fastest in the class but loud.	6.1 mph	Lowest entry price
Mercury Avator 7.5e	The High-Roller. Premium aesthetics and gas-like feel.	5.8 mph	Digital UI & Aesthetics
ePropulsion Spirit 2	The New Gen. 2000W of power with a 3000W boost mode.	6.5+ mph*	USB-C device charging

The "Boulders" of Boat Building: Getting the Setup Right

Choosing the motor is only half the battle. If you don't nail the rigging, you'll lose efficiency.

Shaft Length: The "One Step Back" Rule

Don’t assume "short" means the same thing in electric as it does in gas. Our rule of thumb: ePropulsion shaft naming is effectivelyone step back from gas.

15" Transom? You likely need theExtra Short (XS).
20" Transom? Go with theShort (S).
Target: Aim for the top of the prop to be even with the hull bottom, or up to2 inches below it.

The "48V Architecture" Advantage

Unlike budget trolling motors that run on 12V or 24V, high-end outboards use a48V platform. This allows you to use external E-Series batteries to extend your range from 75 minutes at full throttle to over3 hours.

When to Stick with a Gas Outboard

We love electric, but we aren't going to lie to you, gas still has its place:

Long-Range Cruising - If you're running 20+ miles in a single trip, the battery weight for electric becomes a "logistical nightmare".
Heavy Hulls - For 2,000–5,000 lb sailboats or large pontoons, the Navy 6.0 Evo (9.9HP equivalent) is great, but you'll need a massive (and expensive) battery bank.
Immediate Refueling - You can't "dump" a gallon of electricity into a battery in 30 seconds.

Electric Outboard Motor Products to Consider

1)ePropulsion Spirit 2 Electric Outboard Motor (5HP)

Electric outboard motor, Propulsion Spirit 2, showcasing its sleek design and advanced technology for marine propulsion.

Buy Here

The ePropulsion Spirit 2 Electric Outboard is a powerful next-generation upgrade designed for small boats, tenders, and micro-skiffs. With increased wattage, a boost mode for extra thrust, and improved ergonomics, it delivers strong performance while maintaining the quiet, low-maintenance advantages of electric propulsion.

2) Newport NK180PRO Electric Kayak Outboard Motor

Buy Here

The Newport NK180PRO Electric Kayak Outboard Motor is designed for kayak users who want more control, range, and convenience on the water. It is a strong example of how modern Electric outboard motors can support lightweight fishing and recreational setups.

3) RemigoOne Neo 4HP Electric Outboard

Buy Here

The RemigoOne Neo 4HP Electric Outboard is a sleek and portable option for tenders, sailboats, and smaller recreational boats. If you are looking for the best electric outboard motor for simple handling and everyday usability, this one is worth considering.

4) Newport NT600 6hp Electric Outboard

Buy Here

The Newport NT600 6hp Electric Outboard is a more capable option for boaters who need more thrust and stronger day-to-day performance. It is a good fit for users who want an Electric Outboard that feels closer to a traditional gas outboard in practical use.

When a Gas Outboard Still Makes More Sense

Long-Distance Boating - For long trips or remote areas, a Gasoline outboard motor is more practical because refueling is faster and more flexible than relying on battery power.
High-Speed Use - Gas engines often outperform electric for high-speed or heavy-load conditions, as batteries can drain quickly at sustained high speeds.
Limited Charging Access - An Electric Outboard requires convenient access to charging, unlike gas engines that can be refueled almost anywhere.
Larger Boats and Demanding Conditions - Electric systems can work for heavier boats or rough conditions, but they need larger batteries and more powerful motors, which increases cost and complexity.

Is an Electric Outboard Powerful Enough?

Power is a common concern when switching from a gas outboard to an Electric Outboard, as some boaters worry that it might feel underpowered. The good news is that electric motors deliver instant torque, making them highly responsive at low and moderate speeds, which is especially helpful for docking, maneuvering, cruising, and trolling.

Choosing the best electric outboard motor isn’t about picking the biggest or most expensive option. It’s about matching the motor to your boat’s weight, typical load, and boating habits, and with the right setup, an Electric Outboard can feel more than capable for the type of use it was designed for.

Understanding Range and Battery Limitations

Range is often the biggest factor when comparing Electric Outboards to a Gasoline outboard motor, as electric depends on battery capacity, boat weight, water conditions, throttle use, and travel speed.

It’s important to be realistic about longer runs or all-day use, as electric only works well if the battery system is sized correctly. For some boaters, the best approach is using electric for shorter or lighter outings while keeping a gas engine for heavier-duty or long-range trips.

Final Thoughts

For the DIY boat builder, the transition from gas to electric is no longer just about being "green" it's about a superior, modular experience. While traditional gas outboards still hold the crown for long-distance, high-speed runs, an electric outboard like the ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus or the newer Spirit 2 offers a maintenance-free, silent, and lightweight solution that excels in the most common "Tiny Boat" scenarios.

Whether you're tournament fishing in gas-restricted waters or needing a portable system for a truck-bed build, electric power provides instant torque and precise digital telemetry that gas simply can't match. As long as you respect the 80/20 throttle rule and match your shaft length correctly to your transom, making the switch will keep you focused on the fish rather than the fuel.

Ready to Make the Switch? Whether you're upgrading from gas or starting a fresh jon boat build, Tiny Boat Nation has the electric outboards, rigging gear, and DIY upgrades to help you build smarter, lighter, and more efficiently on the water. Shop the gear or message the crew today to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus require winterization?

A: No. It uses a brushless direct-drive motor that requires no winterization or regular mechanical maintenance.

Q: How long will the battery last at full throttle?

The Spirit 1.0 Plus (1276Wh) provides approximately 76 minutes of runtime at wide-open throttle (WOT).

Q: Can I use a third-party battery with these motors?

Yes. By using a specific external battery cable/adapter, you can connect 48V third-party batteries (AGM, Lead-Acid, or Lithium).

Q: What is the difference between the Spirit 1.0 Plus and the Spirit 2?

The Spirit 2 is rated at 2000W (compared to 1000W) and features a 3000W 60-second boost mode. It also has a redesigned transom clamp and an all-aluminum adjustable tiller.

Q: Why does the LCD screen on my Spirit 2 look black?

This is often due to polarized sunglasses, which can block the visibility of the full-color LCD. Removing the glasses should verify the screen is functioning.