EMP offers a range of innovative and sustainable electric marine motor solutions for a wide range of applications and industries.
Estimate your long-term savings with EMP electric marine power
Compare lifecycle costs and emissions over 10 years. You could save:
over $6,700
around $3,900
in fuel and charging costs*
around $4,100
in maintenance costs*
approximately 4.3 tonnes
of CO₂ emissions*
Marine applications
EMP brushless DC (BLDC) motors deliver dependable propulsion and auxiliary power for commercial and recreational vessels. Designed for reliability and efficiency in demanding marine environments, each model carries an IP67 rating for sealed motor capability (submersible to 1m depth), is compatible with 24V and 48V systems, and delivers peak motor efficiency of 85-90 per cent*.
With precision-balanced rotors, sealed bearings, and integrated electronic control, EMP BLDC technology offers quiet operation, longer service life, and reduced maintenance compared with brushed or petrol-driven alternatives.
EMP manufactures all rotors and stators using automated winding for repeatable performance, tight tolerances, and full traceability, maintaining a sovereign supply chain. We offer flexible customisation of windings, mounts, and control logic to suit specific hull types and mission profiles, with a particular focus on commercial operators and auxiliary systems, backed by local engineering support and rapid spares.
*BLDC motors can exceed 90 per cent efficiency at peak, with typical real-world runtime efficiency of ~65-70 per cent depending on hull form and duty cycle.
Auxiliary systems
BLDC motors are compact, lightweight, and high in power density, making them well suited for auxiliaries and smaller vessels. EMP brushless motors last up to five times longer than brushed equivalents, and feature lighter, more compact housings. Sensorless control simplifies installation and reduces maintenance. BLDC motors may need some additional electronic components, though they provide reliable, versatile performance across auxiliary applications.
Propulsion application
Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSMs) are high-efficiency brushless synchronous motors that use sinusoidal control. They combine the strengths of induction and BLDC motors by using permanent magnets and a sinusoidal back electromotive force (EMF) waveform. PMSMs deliver excellent torque density, smooth performance, and consume less energy, helping to extend range.
Electric boat motors in action
EMP motors are already powering vessels on Australian waterways and have been trialled across dinghies, tenders, and light commercial vessels. Watch our technology in action and see how electric propulsion delivers quiet, clean performance without sacrificing power or reliability.
EMP's motors will perform for up to 5,000 hours and…
Brushless systems deliver instant torque, reliable performance, and eliminate fumes on the water. EMP’s motors run for up to 5,000 hours and have demonstrated reliability in long-term marine duty.
- last five times longer with minimal maintenance compared to brushed motors
- real-world runtime and range tested across hull types
- built-in protection against stalling, reverse polarity, and low voltage
- operate compactly and quietly, making them safer for waterways
- higher peak efficiency (>90 per cent) with smoother throttle response
- lightweight and compact design, easier to transport and install
- full variable speed control with easier reversing
- built-in controller safety features for reliable operation.
Why electric outboards
Zero emissions
Low maintenance
Quiet operation
Safer for waterways
Lower lifetime investment
Regulatory and policy
Australia’s maritime sector is shifting toward lower emissions and cleaner waterways. Current decarbonisation initiatives define clear expectations for commercial and auxiliary fleets, positioning electric propulsion as a practical path to compliance and competitiveness.
EMP's marine systems meet IP67 standards, run on 12V, 24V, and 48V systems, and deliver reliable efficiency. We work with operators to navigate the Australian Maritime Safety Authority’s (AMSA) “Novel Vessels” pathway (NSCV Part F3) approvals, supplying engineering packs and integration support to simplify approvals and prepare fleets for future requirements.
Key initiatives driving the transition
Maritime Emissions Reduction National Action Plan (MERNAP)
National decarbonisation program focused on creating green shipping corridors and reducing maritime emissions.
Australian Maritime Safety Authority’s (AMSA)
“Novel vessel” guidance that sets the pathway for approval of new battery-electric and hybrid marine systems.
How EMP supports electrification
Open consultation and collaboration with operators to align certification pathways and practical deployment.
Commercial applications may require AMSA approvals for battery-electric systems (“novel vessels”).
Petrol to electric marine power total cost of ownership calculator
Compare long-term cost and emissions of electric vs petrol systems.
Models and specs (marine range)
EMP offers outboards in the EMP80 to EMP160 range. Each model carries an IP67 rating for sealed motor capability, is compatible with 24V and 48V systems, and delivers runtime efficiency above 65 per cent.
EMP outboard specifications
| Model | Typical vessel size and thrust equivalent | Runtime at slow speed | Runtime at half throttle | Runtime at full throttle | Battery pairing | Ingress rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EMP80 |
Dinghies or sailboats up to 1 tonne ~ 80 LB thrust
≈ 3 HP petrol equivalent
|
Up to 25 hours | 6–8 hours | 2.5 hours |
24V system
(2 × 12V/100Ah lithium marine batteries)
|
IP67 |
| EMP120 |
Dinghies or sailboats up to 2 tonnes ~120 LB thrust
≈ 5 HP petrol equivalent
|
Up to 35 hours | 6 hours | 3–4 hours |
24V system
(2 × 12V/180Ah batteries)
|
IP67 |
| EMP160 |
Dinghies or sailboats up to 3 tonnes ~160 LB thrust
≈ 8 HP petrol equivalent
|
Up to 50 hours | 8 hours | 4–5 hours |
48V system
(2 × 24V/200Ah batteries)
|
IP67 |
Australian note:
Electricity defaults are based on Victorian Default Offer (VDO) and Default Market Offer (DMO) tariffs. Actual costs vary by distributor and plan.
BLDC motors achieve >90 per cent peak efficiency, with 65–70 per cent runtime efficiency depending on hull and usage.
Switch to smarter marine power; talk to an EMP engineer today.
Trust and case studies
Real-world performance
An EMP120 brushless unit replaced a 4HP petrol outboard, reducing maintenance and cutting costs over 10 years.
Industry momentum
Incat’s battery-electric ferry shows large-scale commercial deployment is already happening.
Frequently asked questions
Q. Do electric outboards have enough thrust for my tinny or dinghy?
A. Yes. EMP rates its brushless models by hull class and vessel weight, so you can choose the right fit for your tinny or dinghy.
Q. What batteries do I need for the 24V or 48V systems?
A. EMP models support marine-grade lithium systems, with compatibility for common 24V and 48V installations.
Q. How long will it run at cruise?
A. You’ll find estimated runtimes for each hull class in the table above.
Q. Are there government incentives?
A. Australia currently offers no consumer rebates for small electric boats; however, commercial operators may be able to access green finance options through the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC), as well as project-specific state programs. Broader decarbonisation initiatives may also apply. In some regions overseas, such as parts of Europe, incentives exist for operating electric boats on electric-only lakes and waterways. Initiatives may also apply. In some regions overseas, such as parts of Europe, incentives exist for operating electric boats on electric-only lakes and waterways.
Q. What about saltwater use and IP ratings?
A. Every model features a waterproof enclosure and carries an IP67 rating (submersible to 1m). They are designed for use in both saltwater and freshwater environments. After using in saltwater, rinse thoroughly with fresh water.
Q. What are the AMSA requirements for commercial applications?
A. Commercial applications may require AMSA approvals under the “novel vessel” guidance. EMP can support operators through this process.
Q. How do EMP electric BLDC motors compare with traditional petrol horsepower?
A. EMP80 ≈ 3 HP petrol, EMP120 ≈ 5 HP, EMP160 ≈ 8 HP,all with lower running costs and zero emissions.
