New quiet Torqeedo Travel 1103 C

Torqeedo has launched a new version in the 1000 series electrical outboard – this time with direct drive and a LOT less noise

As competition is heating up – Torqeedo has done some re-designing of the Torqeedo Travel. The new electric outboard engine now has direct drive and Torqeedo has done away with the gearbox.

I personally salute the decision. The older Torqeedo Travels are good ‘n all but honestly – much too noisy. And the offending noise comes from the gearbox.

The new Torqeedo Travel 1103 C promise a sound level of 33dB – which is very respectable compared to the 503 and 1003 series. Torqeedo do not publish noise figures on their older models (Guess why…..)

Unfortunately there is no upgrade path for existing owners. Many owners where I boat have changed from Torqeedo to e-Propulsion Spirit just due to the noise level from the engine. So an affordable upgrade path for existing users would be a very welcome addition.

The move to direct drive has also increased the output by 10% says Torqeedo. The 1103 C looks almost identical to the 503/1003 series and you can only tell the difference is by looking at the bulb by the propeller. The bulb has grown.

The Torqeedo Travel 1103 C has also gained a few pounds – but I would live with that if the engine is less noisy. As the battery is the same 915W battery as the 1003 C all the extra weight is in the motor and leg it seems. The new 1103 C spins slightly faster and uses a different propeller due to the extra power available. But it is still classified as a 3HP Outboard replacement.

The Torqeedo Travel 1103 C has a list price of about GBP 1850,- The “older” 1003 C cost GBP 1699,- For comparison the e-Propulsion Spirit has a list price of around GBP 1550,-

I think the 1103 C is what the 503 & 1003 should have been. An Electric outboard motor with little noise. If you are buying a new Electric outboard now – there is now only the choice between the Spirit and 1103 C.

I would not buy the older 503 / 1003 models if given the choice now. The noise from the gearbox is just too infuriating.

Now I have to figure out how I get my 1003 shifted for a more silent electrical engine.

More information here: Torqeedo Blog