Flux Marine vs. Gas Outboards: How Modern Electric Power Is Changing Boating Performance

Electric propulsion has evolved far beyond quiet trolling motors. Today, brands like Flux Marine and ePropulsion are proving that electric systems can compete with and sometimes outperform traditional gas outboards in acceleration, efficiency, and handling. But how does this new generation of electric power truly compare to classic combustion engines in real-world boating?

Drawing from sea trials, independent reviews, and technical data, here’s a complete breakdown of how modern electric outboards stack up in torque delivery, top speed, range, and overall practicality.

Instant Torque: Where Electric Outboards Dominate

One of the biggest performance shifts comes from how electric motors deliver power.

Electric: Full Torque at Zero RPM

Flux Marine’s permanent magnet motors provide instant torque from the moment the throttle engages. With maximum rotational force available at 0 RPM, the boat responds immediately ideal for docking, towing, and quick hole shots. This smooth, vibration-free delivery also eliminates the lag and rev build-up common in gas motors.

For example:

• The Flux Marine 100HP can deliver peak bursts equivalent to 150–175HP gas engines.

• Bow rise is significantly reduced, making takeoff more controlled and safer for new boaters.

Gas: Gradual Power Curve

Gas outboards like Yamaha or Mercury models build torque gradually through increasing RPM. This can feel more familiar to long-time boaters and offers excellent control at higher speeds, but it doesn’t match the instant punch electrics produce from standstill.

Acceleration & Handling: Electric Takes the Lead

Acceleration tests consistently show electric outboards excelling in short, powerful bursts:

• Flux Marine 100HP:

  • 0–30 mph in 8.1 seconds on a Highfield 660 RIB

  • Planes in 3–4 seconds even under load

  • Ultra-low idle around 50 RPM something gas engines simply cannot match

This responsiveness is particularly valuable for activities like watersports, rapid maneuvering near docks, or cutting through currents.

Gas outboards, while slightly quicker in some top-end acceleration tests, maintain momentum better at high speeds and heavy loads. They also offer wider RPM adjustment for choppy or offshore conditions.

Top Speed: Gas Still Holds the Crown

Where gas engines continue to dominate is in top speed, thanks to their lighter fuel weight and ability to sustain high RPM.

Comparisons on mid-sized boats show:

While Flux Marine’s dual 115HP setup narrows the gap, single electric units usually fall 10–20 mph behind gas engines under similar conditions. Battery weight often 1,000 pounds or more has a major impact on hydrodynamics.

Efficiency: Electrics Win in Energy Use and Cost

Modern electrics like Flux Marine and ePropulsion outboards boast efficiency ratings up to 95%, compared to gas’s 25–30% thermal efficiency.

Electric Efficiency Advantages

• Zero emissions

• Quieter operation (as low as 60 dB)

• Lower operating cost (charging ~$1–2/hr vs. gas ~$5–10/hr)

• Fewer moving parts = less maintenance

At low speeds, the range extends dramatically:
Flux systems can achieve 80–100 miles at slow cruising speeds.

ePropulsion’s systems such as the compact ePropulsion 1.5HP outboard also offer high efficiency and portability for dinghies and small craft. Many boaters appreciate the modular battery and hydrogeneration capability found in the Spirit Evo, a popular model for sailors seeking clean and quiet propulsion.

Range & Practicality: Gas Wins Long-Distance Travel

For boaters who spend long days offshore or require extended high-speed cruising, gas still offers the best range. A single tank can cover 100+ miles at planing speeds, making it ideal for:

• Offshore fishing

• Heavy commercial use

• Long intercoastal trips

Electric shines in scenarios like:

• Lakes and no-wake zones

• Eco-restricted waterways

• Quiet cruising

• Family boating

• Short-to-medium recreational runs

As battery technology improves, these differences will continue to shrink.

Real-World Comparison: What Boaters Are Saying

Sea trials consistently show:

• Electrics (Flux Marine, ePropulsion) feel significantly more powerful than their rated horsepower especially from standstill.

• Gas outboards remain unbeatable in range and high-RPM endurance.

• The gap between the two technologies is narrowing rapidly, especially with Flux’s 115HP and upcoming higher-power models.

As more brands push innovation like Flux Marine in high-power electric systems or ePropulsion with efficient portable lines the market is moving toward hybrid performance expectations.

Who Benefits Most from Electric Outboards?

Best for Electric:

• Family day trips

• Watersports requiring instant torque

• Silent fishing environments

• Dinghies & tenders (e.g., with ePropulsion Spirit Evo)

• Environmentally sensitive zones

• Boaters who want low maintenance and low operating cost

Best for Gas:

• Offshore cruising

• Heavy-duty commercial fleets

• High-speed sport boating

• Long-range travel where charging may be limited

The Future of Electric Boating

Flux Marine’s high-performance electric outboards mark a new chapter in marine propulsion one where clean energy meets real power. And as technology advances across brands like ePropulsion, electrics continue to chip away at gas dominance.

For many boaters today, electric outboards are no longer a niche choice they’re a practical, powerful, and increasingly mainstream alternative.