Torqeedo is now making a 2-hp electric motor designed to power dinks and tenders and some types of small sailboats and light fishing boats. The new Torqeedo, called the Travel 603, weighs only 34 pounds, including its 500Wh lithium-ion battery, and it costs just $1,999.99.
The new outboard is the lightest in Torqeedo’s Travel line, but it has the standard outboard configuration with a tiller and throttle. “Our goal in introducing the Travel 603 is to make it easier for boaters to discover the unique benefits of clean, green propulsion for smaller craft,” said Dr. Ralf Plieninger, the company’s managing director. “There’s nothing quite like the experience of gliding silently through the water with no odors or exhaust fumes.”
Since it was founded in 2005, Torqeedo has delivered more than 100,000 electric boat motors. With the growth of electric power, the company’s motors now drive everything from small inflatables to ferries in Bangkok.
The integrated 500Wh battery on the new Travel 603 provides up to 5 ½ hours of cruising at slow speeds. You can buy extra battery packs and swap them out with a fully charged spare for more range.
An interesting point: The batteries float, and the entire system is completely waterproof. They are individually welded, cylindrical steel safety cells with several safety mechanisms under Torqeedo’s five-state safety system.
The new motor comes with an onboard computer with a GPS, providing the range, battery charge status and other safety information. The Travel 603 also has a plug-in charger and a built-in solar charge controller. Optional accessories include travel bags, a weedless propeller and remote throttle.
The Travel 603 has a push-button start, variable forward and reverse, and even an optional USB port for charging your cell phone or camera. It also comes with a two-year warranty. Read more:
