ePropulsion's eLite electric outboard has won the Engine & Outboards category at the inaugural Sailors' Choice Awards, announced at the Southampton International Boat Show.
The awards, run by Practical Boat Owner and Yachting Monthly and sponsored by Haven Knox Johnston, are built entirely on input from the sailing community. Sailors and boat owners nominated the products themselves, then the public voted to decide the winners.
There was no panel of judges deliberating in a boardroom. The people who use this gear on the water decided it themselves.
"We are incredibly proud to see eLite recognised by the sailing community," said Danny Tao, co-founder and CEO of ePropulsion. "Awards decided by the people who are out on the water using marine products every day are particularly meaningful. eLite was designed to make electric propulsion simple, practical and accessible, and this recognition is a fantastic endorsement of what our team set out to achieve. Thank you to everyone who nominated and voted for eLite."
The eLite is built as a lightweight, no-fuss alternative to a small petrol outboard. Motor, battery and controls are packed into one compact unit weighing just 6.7kg.
Power comes from a direct drive motor rated at 500W nominal, with a Sport Mode bumping that to 750W when needed. There's no separate battery box or fuel tank to worry about, either, since a 378Wh lithium battery is built straight into the unit.
The foldable tiller and compact design make it easy to carry, install and stow.
For owners of tenders, dinghies and other small craft, the appeal is straightforward. Quiet running and low maintenance count for a lot when you're hauling an outboard on and off a rigid inflatable at the end of a long day.
The win adds to a growing tide of recognition for electric propulsion among sailors and boat owners.
