Electric Paddle
Frequently asked questions
Easiest to use dinghy outboard

It's called pleasure boating.
For maximum pleasure, use a motor designed for your boat.

Click on a question to view an answer

Where has EP Carry been the past few years?
We've been quiet since mid-2020 when the pandemic exploded the global supply chain. With no way to meet demand, we produced what we could, discontinued our marketing campaigns, and focused on improvements. Now that our suppliers are back, we are too.
If you've not visited our website for a while, the FAQ is all new, we've added a complete specification page, a new troubleshooting guide, spare parts store, updated our speed and range calculator to reflect our new standard higher capacity battery, and more. Today's EP Carry has a better sound and feel, it's even more reliable, and we've reduced supply dependence by fabricating parts in-house. We've added a 12V converter option, compatible with all EP Carry motors made since 2017, so EP Carry can now be run using a 12V as well as 24V or 36V batteries. And we've added more accessories like an offshore spares kit so you can keep EP Carry running through incidences in remote places, a tiller extension for pulling boats and fishing kayaks, and we're about to launch the long awaited battery monitor that displays battery stat on your phone (Works on all EP Carry motors made since 2017). We've added a free higher power firmware option you can install yourself using a smartphone, also compatible with all EP Carry outboards. We've baselined our performance against the most popular electric outboards, and logged 3-seasons of research in to solar powered propulsion, which I hope to publish soon. It's been a hard-working, if quiet 3 years. But now EP Carry is, more than ever, the "go-to" choice for small boats. We'd like to thank some important people that helped us get through the past 3 years:
  • To the hundreds of customers who pre-purchased and patiently waited months for their EP Carry while we and our suppliers struggled, you kept us alive.
  • To the hundreds of customers who gave us feedback, photos, and encouragement, you kept us focused and energized.
  • To the customer who just invested in our future, you enabled us to resume a normal growth path again.
  • And to our suppliers, glad we're all back in the groove. Let's get cranking!
With deepest gratitude, Joe and Linda Grez, November, 2023.
What makes the EP Carry system different?
There's never been an outboard designed just for small boats until EP Carry. The US made EP Carry is designed and optimized just for small boat applications like dinghies, small skiffs, small sailboats, canoes and fishing kayaks. As a result, it is the lightest, most portable, easiest-to-use, and most reasonably priced electric outboard motor package available. And it has unique features to make operating small boats more convenient and safer. Over the past 6 years, EP Carry has built a reputation as reliable. Even so, all things should be repairable at home, so EP Carry owners are now supported by an online troubleshooting guide, and an online catalog of replacement parts that can be installed by anyone capable of assembling an IKEA© shelving unit. And if you need help, we are here. EP Carry is not just another disposable electric, and nothing fits a small boat like EP Carry.

I'm new to boating. What do I need to know about outboard motors?

What's boating all about?
First off – Welcome, new boaters! Whether you're interested boating for solitude, adventure, sports, or recreation; being afloat has a lot to offer. And each of your local waterways has its own unique beauty and character to explore. While some boat for community, others seek solitude. Our waters are shared. Please respect the needs of others when afloat.
  • If you were not raised boating, the first step is to take a class. Not only will that make you a safer more confident boater, it can help you figure out what first boat to buy.
  • Small boats provide many times more fun afloat per dollar spent. My first was an inexpensive used 12ft sailboat. Aside from the fun, it provided a valuable and accessible training experience. That boat went to a friend, and when she was ready, it went to another. Today there are lots of boats that roll up, fold up, or nest small enough to fit into a closet. It's never been easier to get started.
Again, Welcome- you're going to love it!
What is an outboard motor?
  • Today there are both electric and gas outboard motors. Considering how close one is to the outboard on a small boat, electric is much easier on the senses and your health.
  • Electric outboards come in two forms; elevated and pod. Elevated has electronics and motor above the water. Pod motors house these sensitive parts in an underwater pod with both fixed and sliding seals to keep the water out.
  • All outboards have a safety key that shuts the motor off in an emergency, a clamp that secures the motor to your boat, a pivot that allows it to rise out of the water for beaching, a tiller for steering, and a throttle to take your power commands. A small gas motor also has a pull-start cord, an internal gas tank, and additional controls to manage air and fuel flow. Most small gas motors require you to spin the motor 180 degrees for a reverse function. Electrics have a reverse function built in. Instead of a gas tank, electrics require a battery. Electric pod motor batteries are mounted to the top of the outboard or slide into a slot. Elevated electrics allow the battery to sit in the boat instead.
  • Gasoline outboards have a horsepower (hp) rating. You might also see this as a kW rating. But in both cases it is a peak shaft power measurement.
  • Electrics have a more consistent power response to loading and therefore the traditional gas outboard peak shaft hp measurement is not predictive of electric performance. So electrics are commonly rated with a "hp equivalent" rating, calculated from the motor's input power. The equivalent rating is intended to allow comparison between gas and electric products.
  • Electrics are also rated by the max input power in Watts (W) or kilo Watts (kW). Don't confuse an electric's input kW rating with the peak shaft kW rating for a gas motor. They are incompatible measurements.
  • Only one brand; EP Carry shuns these ratings methods because they don't capture propulsion efficiency differences. Instead, EP Carry provides what you really want to know, through our online speed and range calculator. If you want to know more about why EP Carry doesn't use power ratings, read this: ratings
  • Small outboards are standardized into short and long shaft versions. Your boat's manufacturer will recommend the correct shaft length but most applications require a short shaft version.
  • In North America, the most recognized electric outboard brands today include the following:
    • Elevated type: EP Carry®,
    • Pod types: Torqeedo®, Mercury®, and ePropulsion®.
  • Only EP Carry has chosen to optimize its thrust speed characteristic for boats under 13ft and 600 lb, beach cats, fishing kayaks, and canoes. You can use other electrics or a gas motor on a small boat, but these motors are much heavier, more expensive, and their propulsion characteristics are designed for boats weighing 1,500 lb and up.
  • We've put together a brief electric outboard history if you are interested.
What makes a boat move?
  • This is a better question than it may seem. A car has traction whereas a boat requires thrust. Traction is where a wheel pushes against an immovable object, like the road surface. This is a very direct and efficient way to drive a vehicle. But in a boat, you can't push against water- it simply moves out of the way. So a boat uses thrust, which is the reverse acceleration of water, to create forward motion. An airplane creates thrust by accelerating air, and a rocket creates thrust by accelerating hot gasses. The moveable nature of water has implications for slowing down or changing direction too. Whereas a car will respond to your steering wheel precisely, a non-planing boat needs time to react and will slide sideways in a turn, kind of like a car that is skidding. Same for slowing down. So driving a boat takes some getting used to. But you catch on quickly and never think about it again. Just be prepared for the difference on your first trip.
How fast and far will my boat go?
Reference info: The standard marine unit of speed is "knots", short hand for "nautical miles per hour". To calculate mph from knots, multiply by 1.15. For km/h, multiply knots by 1.85. For example, 4 knots is equal to 4.6mph, and 7.4 km/h. The multipliers are the same for distance; 5 nm (nautical miles) = 5.75mi, = 9.25km.
  • The propulsive power from an outboard is not linearly related to the speed of the boat. For example, a lightly loaded 9ft rowboat (a Minto) using an EP Carry at full input power, travels 4 knots. A Torqeedo 1003 has 4x the input power, yet speeds increase by only 0.6 knots.
  • Modern small outboards weighing less than 80 lb don't have what it takes to reliably reach planing speeds (skipping on the surface). Small outboards are intended to move the boat nestled in the water like a sailboat, rowboat, or a duck, in what is called "displacement mode". The commonly accepted maximum reasonable speed for such a boat is called "hull-speed". Oddly, the longer the boat's underwater length, the higher the hull-speed. For example, a 13ft rowboat has a hull-speed of 4.3 knots. A 7ft rowboat is slower at 3.2 knots, and a duck has a hull-speed of 1.2 knots. In fact, speeds and ranges are more determined by the boat's underwater length than the size of the motor. If you don't yet have a boat, try our online speed and range calculator to compare the performance of different boat options before you buy, and notice what boat–types, weights, and boat lengths match your expectations best.
  • Inflatables: generally the sides of inflatables are air–filled tubes but the bottom varies. A basic inflatable has a wooden, aluminum–slat, or inflatable floor with a skin of waterproof fabric providing the seal to keep water out. A RIB type (Rigid Inflatable Boat) has a fiberglass or aluminum formed boat hull. Modern inflatables tend to have air tubes extending past the transom in the back. The buoyancy of the aft–protruding tunes is why an inflatable feels more stable (kind of like a catamaran), but in relation to its overall length, both types of inflatables have a much shorter underwater length which is why they are universally slower than rowboats of similar size. A RIB will generally track and change course with better response than a basic type, but the basic floor models are more portable when deflated.
  • Rowboats and Prams. Our speed and range calculator has a description of the differences. For the same overall length, a rowboat is fastest, followed by a pram, and the inflatable is slowest due to its much shorter relative waterline length. Compared to inflatables, rowboats and prams feel less stable (lower initial stability) but they become more stable at increasing lean-angles (angles of heel) making them perhaps un–nerving at first but quite safe. These hull types are highly evolved for safe practical use over centuries of development, but it may take you longer to get used to their feel.
  • The range you can get from any electric is highly influenced by the speed you choose to go. The general rule is a 25% decrease in speed will increase range by 50%. This is important to know if you are concerned about getting back from a longer trip.
How do I use an outboard motor?
  • I won't go into all the knowledge needed to operate a gas outboard – each is slightly different and their instructions should cover it. Using an electric is much easier but it can still require some learning. That's what this section is about.
  • Outboard motors are all designed to clamp to the flat back (stern) of a boat, called a transom. If you have a beach cat, canoe or fishing kayak without a transom, you will also need to purchase a mount that fits your application, and you will need to buy the lightest outboard possible to maintain side–to–side balance. Your boat's manufacturer should be able to guide you in selecting the right mount. We do not recommend a motor on narrow performance kayaks or performance SUPs. But a motor is fine for fishing versions that are wider and can handle the steering forces of an outboard.
  • Controls for small outboards vary. But there is always a tiller with a power control device (throttle) in the handle so your power control and steering are in one hand. Modern electrics and gas motors use a motorcycle style grip that twists for power control. EP Carry has a ball–shaped handle that does not turn. In the front of this handle is a knob that gives you fine control using your fingertips. With this system your wrist will feel better because the round ball handle can be held from any angle, and you don't need to twist your wrist to operate the throttle.
  • Electric outboard throttles control the duty cycle to the motor (motor signals are chopped up into little pulses – longer pulses increase power), but this results in an un–regulated system that produces a highly variable input power performance. EP Carry has a closed loop control (pat pending) so the power you select is the power used at all times and under all conditions.
  • Smaller gas motors require you to steer the motor 180 degrees around for a reverse function. Electrics have reverse and forward built–in.
  • All small outboards (except trolling motors) have a safety key of some sort. In gasoline motors, the key enables the motor to pull-start once the choke, fuel valve, and throttle are adjusted. Electrics don't need to be started so they have a safety interlock instead. EP Carry's safety interlock requires the throttle to be set to the off position for 3 seconds before power can be applied, similar to other electrics. All safety keys have some kind of lanyard that is pulled if you fall overboard. Neglecting to use this feature can result in the infamous "death spiral" where, if you fall overboard and if the motor continues to run, the boat travels in a tighter and tighter spiral around you until "bang". Not good. This can be avoided by using the safety key properly. Gasoline motor safety keys are a plastic clip that snaps to a switch in the motor head and the lanyard is clipped to you. Electrics use a magnetic key that also fits the motor head and the lanyard clips to you. In both cases, if you fall overboard, the key is with you, not with the motor. So your crew will need to use a paddle to reach your position for a rescue. EP Carry's key fits in the center of the control knob on the handle with a shorter lanyard secured to the tiller tube. You can position your hand around the lanyard so the key is removed when your hand is removed to shut off he motor, or you can use your own cord attached to you with a loop in the other end. Pass the key lanyard through the loop before use. Using either method disables the motor if you fall overboard, and pulls the tiller sideways to stop the boat faster. And both methods leave the key with the motor so your shipmates can use the motor to reach your position.
  • Small boats are often beached. The normal way is to come close and stop, remove the safety key, deactivate the reverse latch, raise the motor by reaching to the back of the motor head and pulling, then latch the motor in the raised position. Then you can wade, paddle or row ashore. EP Carry is different. EP Carry's reverse latch automatically engages (you'll hear the click) when the motor is pivoted down into the water. It automatically releases if you hit the bottom, and also self–releases when you pull on the tiller arm. Continuing to pull on the tiller will raise the motor. And continuing to pull more will slide the motor forward moving its weight to a stable parking position. When beaching these steps are all one, so you can pull the key and raise the motor as you to coast up to the beach for a dry-feet exit. See our beaching video.
  • Maneuvering in tight spots is a challenge with small gas motors. At low speeds, they can stall or have too much power for safely maneuvering in a marina or when pulling up to your cruising boat. Electrics improve on this by having no problems operating at the slowest speeds without stalling, and they have reverse immediately available instead of spinning the motor around like a gas motor. Docking slowly is a sign of maturity. Docking at higher speeds creates stress and can damage things or people. I dock like this: glide in at a slow walking speed perpendicular to the dock until 1 boat length away. At this point, steer (without power) all the way right or left, depending on the situation; EP Carry's rudder shaped lower–unit will respond. When the boat is at about 45degrees to the dock and the bow is nearly touching, steer the other way and apply reverse gently and for no more than a second. With practice, your boat will gently stop aligned with, and up against the dock. Don't forget to unplug the safety key before tying up. If you are parking at a crowded dinghy dock, remember to take the safety key with you to prevent unauthorized joy-rides, and leave the motor down to make more room for others.
What about using an outboard safely?
  • Read about the safety key in the above section.
  • All small outboards can be used safely by following some simple precautions.
    • Gasoline has fuel, and carbon monoxide emissions. Gasoline must be respected so don't smoke or light your barbeque in the presence of a fuel spill or fumes. Kids, with their small body mass will be affected by carbon monoxide from engine exhaust long before adults will notice (That's why I built my first electric boat). Don't let young ones breathe the exhaust fumes.
    • Most outboards have pinch points that can injure your hands. Notably in the clamp and tilt mechanism. Because EP Carry is so lightweight, users may place their hands in areas that are not normally touched when using a heavier unit. So EP Carry is the only outboard carefully designed to avoid pinch points.
    • The propeller is dangerous. Most outboard propellers operate well over 1000 RPM. These high speeds make for a fast moving propeller blade that can slice and injure. EP Carry's propeller operates at 600RPM but its propeller is also larger in diameter producing high tip–speeds that can slice and injure as well. All outboards have a shear pin that protects the propeller in an impact, but must be replaced to continue operation. EP Carry has a low-inertia, electronically operated torque-limiter that prevents propeller damage and produces lower impact forces on the thing impacted. I have tested this system at 2x normal power levels against a block of ballistic gel and also against a length of 2x4 placed in its path. The prop did not damage the gel but made some nice dents in the 2x4. The point is that even when you design something to reduce the potential severity of injury, any propeller is capable of bruising, causing lacerations, a broken bone, or it can put an eye out. No outboard propeller is safe against a person in the water so stay away from swimmers and wildlife.
    • If you have an implanted device for your heart, be aware that electric outboard safety keys contain a high strength magnet. Talk to your doctor before using.
    • Every year, there are boaters that drown. This can be avoided by wearing a PFD and using the safety key properly. These days you will have to deal with wakeboarders. Their sport depends on a boat making waves large enough to surf on. Their waves are very steep when created, but flatten out the farther away they get. It is best to stay away.
    • Waves in deep water become steep and break over in shallow waters. Before approaching a beach, take a look for wakes. Wait for them to break and then head in safely.
What do I need to know about electricity?
  • If you are using a complete package from EP Carry, there is no need to know anything about electricity. But if you are interested in understanding some of the electrical terms people use, go here: Electrical Concepts
How do I talk like a sailor?
  • Knots: The standard marine unit of speed is "knots", short hand for "nautical miles per hour". To calculate mph from knots, multiply by 1.15. For km/h, multiply knots by 1.85, so 4 knots is equal to 4.6mph, and 7.4 km/h.
  • Port and Starboard: When facing in the direction of travel, the left side of the boat is the port side and the right side is the starboard side. Left and right depend on your position whereas port and starboard always refer to the same sides of a boat. It's kind of like driver's side and passenger's side of a car, but better; port and starboard are the same in the US, and the UK where they drive on the wrong side of the car ☺.
  • Transom: Outboard motors are mounted to the flat surface on the back of a boat called a transom.
  • Bow and Stern: Front and back of a boat.
  • Fore and Aft: Fore is towards the bow, and aft is towards the stern.
  • Heel: when a boat is forced to lean, usually when under sail, or when Fido focuses on a passing seal.
  • List: A boat lists or is listing when leaning to the side, or heeling.
  • Trim: A term used to describe how a boat is sitting in the water. It is "trimmed fore and aft" if sitting level front to back. It is "trimmed down by the stern" if it is squatting, and "trimmed down by the bow" if the front end is overloaded. If a boat is listing to a side, it is trimmed to port, or trimmed to starboard. A "well-trimmed to port" boat is safer and faster in the water.
  • Sheer: the top edge of a boat hull. A boat has a springy sheer when curving upward to the bow and stern. Reverse sheer is the opposite. A rowboat usually has a flat or springy sheer to help overcome waves from fore and aft directions. A sailboat may be designed with a reverse sheer to keep water out when heeling over in a blow.
  • Throttle: Antiquated but still universal term for the speed control interface– usually a lever, handle or knob.
  • Baggywrinkle: A fuzzy structure that protects sails from chafe (wear) against shrouds (cables). No sailor fails to use the term baggywrinkle whenever possible.
What's the pitch for EP Carry?
Glad you asked.
  • Designed and optimized for small boat applications- if you have a small boat, EP Carry is the best choice according to our customers.
  • We did the hard work to develop an online speed and range calculator that accounts for boat length, total weight, and hull type. That way you can see how your boat will respond to EP Carry at different loads and throttle settings and even use the calculator to choose the right boat for your needs.
  • EP Carry has a gaggle of unique and patented features just for small boat applications.
    • The EP Carry motor weighs 14lb and the battery weighs 6.4lb. That's 14lb lighter than the next closest competitor.
    • EP Carry programming provides a smoother more predictable acceleration to prevent sudden motions on a small boat. Other electrics can de–stabilize your passengers with sudden jumps in acceleration.
    • EP Carry has remote lifting, fingertip control of forward and reverse, electronic propeller protection, closed loop control for predictable run-times, a handle under the motor head for one-hand mounting, and it is designed for the future with Bluetooth built in. With our BLE link, today you can choose between standard power or boosted power firmware. In the near future you will be able to download an app for IOS and Android that will give you battery stats, motor power stats, and a quick way to limit your max power level– low for training, normal for ship to shore, and higher for more challenging applications. The app also has a "geek-out" mode for out solar racing teams.
    • For a complete listing of EP Carry benefits look at our specification page.

Performance

What horsepower or "lb thrust" rating does EP Carry have?
We designed our standard power EP Carry to propel a small boat to its natural "hull-speed" while producing a generous range. In doing so, we learned enough about how EP Carry works on small boats to create the first online speed and range calculator. With our speed and range calculator, you can see what EP Carry does, differences in performance from different load conditions, or use the calculator to help choose your next dinghy. Our calculator predicts speeds and ranges using our standard power firmware version, which is the preferred option for shorter dinghies 9 ft and under. We offer a free firmware option for longer boats that can be installed from a smart phone or tablet firmware update.
Because our calculator has proven so popular, we avoid stating standard hp and "lb thrust" ratings which are simply not predictive of performance anyway. If you need a more complete explanation of why we don't list a comparative hp or "lb thrust" rating, look at our ratings page.
 
How fast will my boat go?
Refer to our online speed and range calculator. The calculator gives you speeds in flat windless conditions. See What about winds and seas? And What about currents?
Towing is another condition– I can give the examples of towing an18 ft catboat at 3.4 knots. And towing a 6,000 lb sailboat 2 knots.
How much runtime per battery charge?
EP Carry's exclusive closed loop control system assures that runtime at a fixed power setting is always the same, on any boat, any sea conditions, towing etc.
Note, EP Carry's throttle has marks for ½ power and ¼ power. Half power is selected by aligning the throttle knob marker with the tip of the indicator arrow. ¼ power is selected by aligning the throttle knob marker with the base of the indicator arrow.
Using our standard power firmware:
  • At full power, EP Carry battery provides 70 minutes of runtime.
  • At half power it provides 140 minutes.
  • At ¼ power you will have 280 minutes of run time.
Using our high power firmware:
  • At full power, EP Carry battery provides 50 minutes of runtime.
  • At half power it provides 105 minutes.
  • At ¼ power you will have 210 minutes of run time.
How far can I travel with EP Carry?
For ship to shore service (with a dog, plus other trips), you will get at 2 or 3 days of service from a charge. If you recharge each evening you will never need to think about range limitations.
For a more direct answer, try our speed and range calculator. Here's an example taken from the calculator (note the calculator specifies speeds and ranges for a standard power EP Carry).
A Gig Harbor Point Defiance is a lightweight, traditional looking 12' rowing boat. With a 250 lb load (400lb total weight) it goes 4 knots at full power and offers a range of 4.7nm per charge. If you choose to travel at half power, your speed is 3 knots but your range increases to 7nm. By using our calculator you can get a feel for how EP Carry may fit your particular range needs under different weight conditions and power levels.
See battery selection for a way to calculate ranges for a user-supplied battery.
What about wind and seas?
Our calculator indicates speeds with no seas, currents or wind. This, of course, is rarely the case. My experience shows you can expect a 5% to 10% reduction in speed and range against a Force 4 moderate breeze, and a 0% to 5% increase in speed and range when traveling with it. 2' seas on the nose can reduce speeds and ranges by another 5% but when astern, speeds and ranges increase a similar amount.
What about currents?
We have talked about increasing range by slowing down but in this instance, that rule is broken.
For example, the 12' Point Defiance rowboat weighing 400 lb, can match a 2 knot current using a ¼ power setting on its EP Carry.
Obviously, if you're only matching the speed of an opposing current, your range over the ground is zero.
But let's look at full power range:
At full power this boat goes 4 knots. That against a 2 knot tide is 2 knots made good. Range is only 2.3nm but that's better than zero.
Interestingly, at ½ power you can make 1 knot over the ground against this tide. Though you will be getting twice the run time and your ground speed is 1 knot instead of 2, so your range over the ground the same for ½ power vs full power in this example.
Tides giveth and taketh away. We've been talking about the "taketh" side. But you can also wait for the tide to change and go 6 knots. The fastest ground speed my EP Carry powered 14 ft solar camp cruiser has attained is 9.2 knots through the Tacoma Narrows. I would never attempt that route against the tide and you shouldn't either.

Our battery pack

What options do I have for charging?
EP Carry batteries can be charged using the included AC charger from a standard wall outlet (120/240v AC 50/60 Hz) or inverter. You can also use an optional direct DC-DC charger, a 24V solar panel (direct to the battery) or a solar array with a solar controller. For more detail, see charging your battery.
 
Can I use other batteries with EP Carry?
All EP Carry motor products operate normally from 24V or 36V batteries. We also offer a booster that allows you to use a 12V battery. All voltages result in the same propulsive power characteristic. EP Carry has a simple detachable waterproof connector cord that attaches to any battery with M6 lugs. If your battery has larger screw terminals the lugs can be replaced to suit. We prepared a tech sheet on battery selection, calculating range and some info on hookup. Battery Selection
 
How long will the battery pack last?
Our standard EP Carry batteries are manufactured by K2 Energy in Nevada who also makes Lithium battery systems for the Navy, hospital medical equipment, and their 12V versions are used by many R2AK racing teams for powering electronics. Specs for our battery are summarized as 25.6V, 288Wh using LiFEPo4 cells. They are rated use between -40°C to +85°C.
Batteries of all types degrade over time and with use. But different types degrade faster than others. K2's LiFePO4 cells have a slower capacity degradation rate than the more common pouch-style Lithium polymer batteries used in some e-bikes and in most hand held electronics. And K2 says their batteries last up to 10x longer than lead acid deep-cycle batteries.
We have tracked the performance of our oldest battery, purchased in 2014, initially used for qualification tests like drop, immersion, temperature, deep discharge, overcharge, and shorting. Since then, it has powered our demo tank at shows and been our main test battery in the shop. I estimate it has accrued well over 1,400hrs of active use, and over 1000 charge cycles. At 5 years it was down to 80% of its initial capacity (run time). At 9 years, it still provides 74% of its initial capacity. In the absence of more data, we believe this is a typical degradation behavior for a heavily used battery.
Does EP Carry show battery charge status?
Not quite yet. But:
  • If you use a dinghy for shore access, you will have enough range for multiple days of use. Recharge each evening so you never need to think about range. This is why we did not include a battery meter when we launched. But we are aware that many of you need to know more.
  • If your motor use is similar day-to-day, our charger offers a way to get comfortable with your range. The charger adds ~20% to the state of charge each hour. When you recharge the first evening, take note of the time until the charger light turns green. If it takes 1-1/2 hours you used 30% of your capacity that day.
  • If your application is for longer sightseeing trips, a two-battery EP Carry system gives you 2hrs + 20 minutes at full power for only $212 more than a Torqeedo 603C with 50 min. If you update your EP Carry with the higher power option (Free upload), your propulsive effect is comparable to the Torqeedo® 603C and your two-battery max throttle run time is 1hr+40 min.
  • Voltage cannot be used to track detailed discharge conditions for LiFePO4 batteries. But you can conclude that a resting EP Carry battery over 27V is near full charge and below 23 is nearly discharged.
  • Integrating power-meters (also called coulomb counter meters) work with Lithium batteries. Many such meters are available online but it's hard to find one that's waterproof and robust. We are just now launching a re-packaged version of the PowerMon meter by Thornwave Technologies. This is a Bluetooth connected meter fitted with an immersable case and simplified wiring. It provides battery % charge levels, remaining run-time and a host of more technical readings. See our store for details.
  • All EP Carry outboards and Jackson Flexdrive E motors made since 2017 have wireless connectivity built in. We are (still) working on an app that will display your remaining runtime and more. Stay tuned for updates. Newsletter signup
 
Do the batteries require special care?
Older battery types like NiMH, required full discharges and full recharges to retain their usefulness. This is not the case for LiFePO4 batteries. So charge and discharge as much or as little as you require.
Important note: If you fully discharge your EP Carry battery, be sure to get it on charge within a few days. This will assure that you avoid a permanent lockout condition with your battery. Lockouts are the only failure mode we have seen with well over 1000 batteries in customer's hands. The incidence of this condition is extremely low but 100% avoidable by remembering to recharge.
Store in a dry place out of sunlight and extreme temperatures, and let it dry out if wet.
We apply silicone grease to the battery terminals and connector at the factory. It's a good idea to refill connector sockets with silicone grease once each year.
Are the batteries dangerous?
All high power batteries are dangerous to persons, property and to the environment if improperly discarded. We have always offered free recycling of our batteries for EP Carry customers but no takers over the past 8 years since we started shipping K2 batteries. (425) 502-5232.
 
Is there a danger from the magnetic key?
The magnetic field from the safety key is not inherently dangerous to humans or pets. If you have an implanted device for your heart, consult your doctor. It contains a Neodymium N52 magnet sealed inside a plastic housing.

Selecting shaft and tiller length

How do I know what length shaft to buy?
We offer standard short shaft and long shaft versions. The Standard/Short shaft size fits the majority of small production boats except for the Portland Pudgy and the X-Cat that require long shaft versions. If you're not sure, measure from your transom top down to the waterline. If it is 17 inches or less, use the Standard/Short shaft model. If it is more than 17 inches (up to 22"), select the Long shaft model. If you need help, please email us at
 
How do I know what tiller length to buy? How about a tiller extension?
The Standard length tiller arm protrudes forward 12" from the transom; similar to other outboards, and it is the best choice for inflatables where you sit on the tube close to the motor. If you have rowboat or pram and sit on a center thwart, you will appreciate the extra length of the 22" long tiller option. If you have a rigid hulled boat over 12', like a PT11, fishing kayak or pulling boat, you will need the long tiller arm and may also like our optional tiller extension, see our store. If you need help choosing, please email us at
 

Controls

How do the controls work?
The throttle handle is the total control center for your EP Carry. Besides steering, forward and reverse speeds, the safety key fits in the handle so it's close by. The handle also serves to raise and lower your EP Carry when beaching- just pull to raise and push to lower. When the key is first inserted with the battery connected, you must turn the throttle knob to the off position and keep it there for 3 seconds before operating the motor. This is to prevent accidental propeller rotation when connecting the battery. More how's and why's on our controls page.
 
Is the propeller weedless?
The prop will cut through some lighter vegetation but just like other small outboards, our prop does collect eelgrass, and seaweed lurking just below the surface. You will notice a drop in motor speed and boat speed when this happens. Reversing for a moment clears about half of the instances. Raising the motor by pulling on the tiller and applying power to fling weeds off is effective for nearly all other snarls. I need to remove weeds by hand once or twice per 100 nm of travel. Before removing weeds with your hands, be sure to remove the safety key, raise the motor by pulling on the tiller, slide the motor forward on its shaft to being the propeller closer.
Will the propeller break?
No. It is made of a fiberglass matrix and is remarkably resilient. EP Carry also has an electronic shear pin function. This feature electronically senses a hard impact and stops the motor in milliseconds, before damage can occur. To get going again, move the throttle to the off position for 3 seconds and resume.
With these protections, no customer has reported a damaged propeller from an impact with the exception of one case where the boat was thrown onto the stern in a heavy-surf beach landing.
That said, the propeller module is a wear item. It should be replaced at around 100hrs, or when it starts to get noisier. For most users this is after 4-6 years of use. Replacement takes just a minute and replaces not only the prop but the drive gear and prop shaft bushings at the same time. It's a bottom end rebuild and new prop, done in 2 minutes at an affordable price.
Is the propeller dangerous?
The propeller is dangerous. Most outboard propellers operate well over 1000 RPM. These high speeds make for a fast moving propeller blade that can slice and injure. EP Carry's propeller operates at 600RPM but its propeller is also larger in diameter producing similarly high tip-speeds that can slice and injure. Typical outboards have a shear pin that protects the propeller in an impact, but must be replaced to continue operation. EP Carry has a low-inertia, electronically operated torque-limiter that prevents propeller damage and produces lower impact forces on the thing impacted. We have tested this system at 2x normal power levels against a block of ballistic gel and also against a length of 2x4 placed in its path. The prop did not damage the gel but dented the 2x4. The point is that even when you design something to reduce the potential severity of injury, any propeller is capable of bruising, causing lacerations, a broken bone, or it can put an eye out. No outboard propeller is safe against a person in the water so stay away from swimmers and wildlife.
Is there a reverse?
Yes. Turn the throttle knob counterclockwise for variable reverse. Reverse peak power is limited to ½ of forward peak power so it feels more like a gas outboard. The automatic reverse latch will keep the motor from climbing out of the water in reverse without the need to remember engaging it.
Will the EP Carry withstand groundings?
See "Will the propeller break?" above. Additionally, the impact resistant skeg protects the prop and the motor kicks up if you hit an obstruction.
What if my boat gets swamped or capsizes?
Focus on yourself- upright, bailed and safe. If you have a spare battery aboard make sure its connector sockets are dry. Continue your trip. A connected motor and battery are protected against a brief shallow water immersion. When you get back and changed, take your batteries out of their soft cases and let things air-dry.
Does the EP Carry make my boat a powerboat?
If it has a motor, it's a powerboat. The federal government requires registration for all mechanically powered craft used on federally-regulated waterways and contracts registration activities with each state. But lots of inland lakes and rivers are not federally regulated. Rules for these waters are governed by your state, but may also be governed by your county, or park.
Washington State has enacted some exemptions including RCW 88.02.030.c that exempts a ships'–tender, and RCW 88.02.570 (15) that exempts small vessels with electric motors when used on non-federally-regulated waterways (landlocked lakes etc).
Your state government website is the best way to find out what rules apply. If you don't like your state's rules, call your local state representative– they love to talk one-on-one with anybody who votes. I contacted mine and suggested that e-bikes are not registered as motorcycles so small electric boats should not be registered as powerboats. Washington legislators jumped at the chance for bi-partisan agreement and now, its law (RCW 88.02.570 (15)).
Is EP Carry silent?
You can expect to hear natural sounds and conversations but EP Carry makes a hum. Heavy fiberglass boats, Roto-molded boats, and especially Inflatables and RIBs naturally deaden vibrations and naturally run quieter. Some lightweight plywood or fiberglass boats are very acoustically "live" and amplify the sound. Adding a substantial motor pad such as a block of teak or mahogany can help.
How do I mount the EP Carry to my boat?
EP Carry accepts transom thicknesses from 1" to 2.8" thick and is designed to fit transoms at rake angles from 0 degrees to 35 degrees. The transom or mounting surface must be perpendicular to the boat's length for tilt functionality. When using a canoe, fishing kayak or a small sailboat like the Haven 12-½, we highly recommend side mounting. There are commercially available mounts for these applications.

Maintenance, care and service

What seasonal maintenance is required?
If you have access to a hose with fresh water, spray down the entire motor with a focus on the clamp area and the port just above the propeller hub. A strong spray is fine but don't use a pressure washer. If you're short on fresh water, pour a glass of fresh into the slot above the propeller hub and another in the clamp area. Air-dry with the motor on its side, motor stand or transom.
Give the battery a top-off charge (until the charger light turns green). Check the battery connector for signs of corrosion in the gold plated sockets. If one of the sockets isn't a shiny gold color, order a replacement cord for next season from our store. Fill the battery connector sockets with silicone grease (available at auto parts stores) 1x per year. The grease will spread to the male motor connector when you next use the system.
The propeller module is EP Carry's only wear item. If you noticed your motor sounding noisier (usually starts around 100 hrs. of use) order a replacement. A worn prop module is not less efficient or more prone to breakage. It's just noisier.
What are the most common problems?
EP Carry has been in production since 2017. As expected, early units had a higher incidence of problems than today, but still our reliability has always been high by consumer product standards, we have always prioritized servicing existing customers, and we have also improved the product over time.
If you purchased an older motor and have a problem, the first step is to go to our troubleshooting guide for help. If you still need help, contact us. Our motto is that a non-functional motor is of no use so we do what we can to help solve problems that do occur.
Today's EP Carry units are remarkably problem-free. That said, we still receive calls. It's usually an old issue that has been addressed in production, the result of modifications, or adjustments made by owners. In some cases, a deep water or long shallow water immersion of the motor head.
If you have a problem, the first thing to do is see our troubleshooting guide. In most cases the problem can be addressed without replacement parts. If parts are needed, we now carry a line of replacement parts that are commonly lost or that can be in need of replacement.
If you still have a problem, don't hesitate to get in touch. We want the opportunity to help assure all EP Carry motors operate as they should.
Are replacement parts expensive?
We made every effort to design EP Carry as a module-based product that can be repaired indefinitely. Motors for 2023 have changes that improve on this goal. Our modules are designed for reduced weight which uses less material helping us to provide repairs that are more affordable and better for the environment. See our online store for module pricing.
 
What is the warranty on the EP Carry?
2 years on the motor, battery and charger for personal, non-commercial use.
How can I have my motor serviced or updated?
EP Carry requires no servicing other than a seasonal rinse, and application if electrical grease of battery connectors to prolong life.
Repair or update at home: We tried to make repairing or updating your EP Carry no more complicated than assembling an IKEA® cabinet. You can find diagnosing help on our troubleshooting page. And if that doesn't work, email us . Find a listing of replacement parts in our store.
Factory service: Warranty service is through our factory in North Bend WA. Service for out-of-warranty repairs, or upgrades to a later spec are available from our factory in North Bend at a reasonable rate. We are eager to work with you so don't hesitate to get in touch. .
Update options: Your older motor can be updated to current specifications. All updates can be done at our factory, or you can do them yourself with our update kits. Options include a lift latch update, a throttle update, and a connector system update. We lost our original connector supplier due to the pandemic. While your older connector system can last a very long time, we can no longer provide a direct replacement battery cord or charger adapter. If you do need a new battery cord, or want a new power-related accessory, you will need to update your connector format. If you do this yourself, it requires no motor disassembly but does require cutting, stripping and soldering two wires. The kit includes a solder-on waterproof motor connector, a new battery cord kit, a new charger adapter, and instructions. Alternatively, we can update your connector system for you. See store for options.
 

Set-up, use, charging

Setup takes less than one minute.
The dog needs to go! version:
  • Unfold the tiller arm, place motor on transom, tighten clamp screws.
  • Place the battery near motor and push battery connector into its socket on the motor– "click".
  • Insert the magnetic key, wait 3 seconds and go.
  • Don't forget your PFD, pooch and poopy bags.
For a detailed version, go here: Setup
 
Handling under way
Safety: Rules are simple:
  • Adhere to your state's safety rules especially for the use of PFDs.
  • Use your motor's safety key properly.
  • In cold waters, be competent to perform a self-rescue. Hypothermia acts fast.
  • Drinking and horsing around are a danger to you and others.
  • Watch and slow down for swimmers and wildlife.
Travel tips when using EP Carry:
  • Other electrics require hands to be on the tiller at all times to prevent rounding up. This happened to us while testing a competitor's motor and it not only caused a near capsize, but it broke that motor's clamp casting. EP Carry's is designed with variable steering resistance so you can maintain a course without holding the tiller handle.
  • If you want to extend your range, a small reduction in applied power produces a larger increase in range. For example, a 7-1/2 foot inflatable weighing 400 lb has a hull speed of 2.8 knots. EP Carry will drive this boat 3 knots at full throttle. Using ¾ throttle instead will decrease speed by 7% to your hull speed of 2.8 knots. This small speed reduction increases your range 34%, from 3.5 nm to 4.7 nm.
  • Use a steady forward speed when approaching the beach. When in shallow water and close enough to coast the rest of the way pull the key and raise your EP Carry by pulling on the tiller. You can lower the motor tip into the water to steer while coasting. Once landed, slide the motor forward 4"–6" on its tube to park it in a stable raised position. When you lower the motor again, this will position the motor height appropriately for shallow water operation so you can claw back into deeper water. The motor will self-lower as you steer back and forth.
  • EP Carry is the only outboard with a rudder shaped lower unit. This allows steerage even with the power off or when partially submerged. This helps prevent rounding up as you coast to a shallow beach landing, navigate in tight spots & docking. Incidentally, our rudder-shaped lower unit it also offers high steering force at cruise speeds, enough to replace a small sailboat rudder while motor sailing.
  • The skipper should keep the key attached to the tiller and her fingers should be around the lanyard so if the hand is removed, so is the safety key. Alternatively, for safe hands-free travel, tie a cord to your PFD with a loop in the other end. Make it a comfortable length so you can steer with the key lanyard passed through this loop. If you should fall overboard, the cord will pull the key and stop your motor. The key will remain with the motor instead of the man overboard so your crew can use the motor for rescue.
Tides:
No discussion of on-the-water usage can be complete without talking about tides. We have talked about increasing range by slowing down but with opposing tides, that rule can be broken. For example, the 12' Point Defiance can match a 2 knot tide with a ¼ power setting. This produces a 9nm range over the water but of course over land; you're at a stand-still. In this situation choosing full power results in a ground speed of 2.1 knots and range over the ground climbs to 2.4 nm. In this instance, it's much better to use full power. Better yet, wait for the tide to change and you'll be doing 6 knots. The fastest ground speed my EP Carry powered 14 ft solar camp cruiser has attained is 9.2 knots through the Tacoma Narrows. I would never attempt that route against the tide and you shouldn't either.

Other questions

Can I travel on airlines with the EP Carry?
Airlines unfortunately do not allow high capacity Lithium batteries aboard.
Is there a dealer near me?
We sell direct online and through several small to mid-size dealerships. The largest include Fisheries Supply, Duckworks, Gig Harbor Boatworks, and Chesapeake Light Craft.
We are interested in signing up more dealerships stateside but also in Australia and Canada. If you would like to recommend a dealership, please do, and also make your dealer aware of your interest in EP Carry. (425) 502-5232.
 
Can I look at an EP Carry before buying?
Visit one of our retailers or look for us at major boating shows or at our demonstration events. To be notified of shows and events, sign up here. Newsletter signup
 
What is your return policy?
We will honestly tell you up front if your application is not right for EP Carry. We even recommend other outboards when we think it may be a better fit for to your needs. As a result we have had very few return requests. We accept only unopened returns, charge a 10% restocking and inspection fee, and the customer must arrange for shipping. If you no longer need your used EP Carry, our motors maintain a high resale value so we recommended a private sale. Post on your marina's board and you will likely see prompt interest. Remaining time on your warranty will transfer to the new owner. Just ask the new owner to introduce themselves and it'll be set up.
 
What are your shipping policies?
Your motor will be shipped via UPS Ground service. Once it ships, you will receive the UPS tracking information in an email from the UPS system. This will let you know the expected delivery date. Due to the high dollar value of your motor shipment, our shipper (UPS Ground) requires a signature on delivery. Some customers choose to have the motor shipped to a nearby UPS store. That way the store can receive it during their normal business hours, allowing you to pick the shipment up at your convenience. Please let us know your preference.
Shipping costs are determined by UPS Ground based on your distance from our warehouse in North Bend WA.
We know that shipping to Canada and Alaska is more difficult with UPS. Your local boating supply outlet could make transport easier for customers in your area. Let them know about us, and let us know about them. Email us at (425) 502-5232.
 
What has EP Carry done for others??
EP Carry is just one way we?ve acted on our greater mission to share the joys of electric boating.
  • We have volunteered with port officials to model performance of electric propulsion options for their work boats.
  • We have supplied customized EP Carry motors and knowledge to high school and college solar boat racing teams. One of our highly competitive high school teams competed in Monaco against an all college competitive field.
  • We have participated in local "grow boating" activities, paneled at IBEX on electric propulsion, and regularly give seminars on solar and electric boating at boat shows, and yacht clubs in the PNW. Our talks have inspired others to go electric including the owners of Electric Philosophy, a Sam Devlin-built solar cruising catamaran that has now logged thousands of solar powered miles in the Salish Sea and along the inside passage.
  • EP Carry has donated motors to the Wooden Boat Foundation for fundraising and for use at their livery. We are a past sponsor of the R2AK event (yes, the 750 mile boat race to Alaska that forbids motors). We have also supplied know-how and parts to R2AK racing teams for their pedal propulsion systems.
  • We hire summer interns in engineering fields giving each a project to develop their innovation skills. They have an opportunity to take on a development project to completion, and in the process, learn how to design using CAD, machine tools, 3-d printers, and CNC equipment.
  • We thought that small electrically powered boats should not need to be licensed the same as a 36 ft twin-diesel yacht. Working through our state representative, we co-authored a bill that succeeded with a non-partisan vote, and was signed into law; in Washington State, RCW 88.02.570 (15) assures that no registration is required for small boats with a small electric outboard in state regulated waters. This proves that you can have an impact on your state's laws by talking with your local state rep. They want to hear from you.
Can I invest in EP Carry?
By law, we cannot solicit investments, and can only accept funding from qualified investors. So this is not a solicitation. But of course, anybody can contact us for any reason. (425) 502-5232.
 
What are EP Carry's specifications?
Standard EP Carry power is perfect for smaller boats. If you have a larger boat application and need more power, every EP Carry made since 2017 can be "boosted" to add 25% more input power. This is done wirelessly using your smart phone or tablet. With boosted power, input power is increased from 220W to 270W. When used on a small boat, this increase brings our speed and range in line with the performance of a Torqeedo 603C*, though we use less than half the input power. To see why, go to our ratings page. To upgrade your motor, go here: Firmware update.
For more detailed information on specifications, go to our specifications page.
 
Pricing EP Carry Torqeedo® 603C Honda® BF2.3
Package MSRP $1,999 $2,248 $1,040
Spare battery MSRP $460 $699 gas + can
Weights EP Carry Torqeedo® 603C Honda® BF2.3
Weight, total 20 lb 34 lb 30 lb
Weight of motor only 15 lb 25 lb
Weight of battery only 6 lb 9 lb
Performance EP Carry Torqeedo® 603C Honda® BF2.3
Runtime (max power / half power) Standard: 70 min/140 min.
Boosted: 50 min/105 min
50 min. / 105 min. 60 min. / var.
Speed (max power on 9' rowing dinghy) Standard: 4 knots
Boosted: 4.2 knots
4.2 knots * 4.6 kts (est.)
Speed (1/2 power on 9' rowing dinghy) Standard: 3.4 knots
Boosted: 3.6 knots
3.6 knots* Hard to tell
Power
(Standard power firmware)
EP Carry Torqeedo® 603C Honda® BF2.3
Max input power Standard: 220 W, regulated
Boosted: 270W, regulated
600 W, load dependent. 9,570 W
Energy storage capacity 288 Wh 500 Wh 9,570 Wh (0.29 gal gasoline)
Recharge time/Ah from 12V house bank 5.5 hours/25 Ah 5.5 hours/52 Ah
Other EP Carry Torqeedo® 603C Honda® BF2.3
Salt Water corrosion prevention method non-metallic construction Replaceable zinc Replaceable zinc
Max transom thickness 2.8in 2.5in 2.2in
max transom rake 35 degrees 25 degrees 20 degrees
"*" measured using a Torqeedo 1003 at 600W input to simulate the 603C max stated power level. All measurements taken using the same boat and weight-condition in a lake with little to no wind. We use a GPS with 0.1 knot resolution and measure power using a Watt's Up meter. Reported speeds are average values from multiple measurements in two opposing directions.
 
See our complete specifications
 

Need help?

Contact us directly with questions or to request other accessories or replacement parts.
Email or call (425) 502-5232.
“Can be stored inside cabin without fuel smell, or concerns about leakage and stains. Lightest weight option for dinghy power. Best option for dinghy power. Anchorages would be better if everyone used quiet motors.”
—Jim M., Snohomish, WA. Read more testimonials.