Comparison: electric vs. thermal motor for light boats
, by Kahe Team, 3 min reading time
Comparison: electric vs. thermal motor for light boats
Sail in silence, without smoke, without gasoline... or rely on the raw power of a thermal engine?
If you are looking to power a light boat, rowboat, paddleboard, kayak or tender, the choice between an electric outboard motor and a thermal outboard motor is worth considering.
Here is a clear comparison to help you make the right choice based on your needs.
Electric motor for light boats: the advantages
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✔️ Clean : no gasoline, no odor, zero direct emissions
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✔️ Compact and lightweight : perfect for a sailboat tender, kayak or paddleboard
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✔️ Easy to use : no complex maintenance, quick setup
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✔️ Quiet : ideal for fishing, does not disturb wildlife
Thermal engine: for what uses?
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✔️ More powerful for long distances or heavy loads
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❌ Noise , fumes, odors: not very pleasant for leisure use
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❌ Pollution and regular maintenance
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❌ Banned in more and more protected areas or lakes
| Use | Electric recommended? | For what ? |
|---|---|---|
| Fishing by boat / float tube | ✅ | Silence, lightness, discretion |
| Sailboat tender | ✅ | Compact, quick to implement |
| Paddle / Motorized Kayak | ✅ | Easy installation, zero noise |
| Intensive navigation | ❌ | Prefer a thermal or a hybrid |
| Transport of heavy loads | ❌ | Risk of insufficient autonomy |
Summary
| Criteria | Electric motor | Heat engine |
|---|---|---|
| Silence | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Pollution | ✅ None | ❌ Broadcasts |
| Weight / transportability | ✅ Lightweight | ❌ Heavier |
| Autonomy | ⚠️ Variable | ✅ More stable |
| Cost of use | ✅ Low | ❌ Fuel to be provided |
| Authorized areas | ✅ Almost everywhere | ❌ Prohibited in certain areas |
Kahe POD 600: the number 1 3-in-1 electric outboard motor!
The Kahe POD 600 is a multifunctional, ultra-light electric outboard motor designed for light boats. It can be fitted to a boat , paddleboard , kayak , or used as an underwater thruster .
The Kahe POD 600 is a patented, multi-award-winning non-electric motor (2023 Technical Innovation Award - AFBE, CES 2024 Official Selection, 2024 Start-up Award - Usine Nouvelle Sustainable Industry Day)
The advantages of the Kahe POD 600
- The lightest on the market at only 4.5 kg
- Up to 10 hours of battery life
- Customer reviews 5/5
- Silent
- Own
- Designed and designed in France
- Optimal security: connected circuit breaker bracelet
- ...
💡 The electric motor: it is a complete, ecological and innovative alternative.