Electric Kayak: The E-Bike for the Water

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【Summary】Old Town has introduced the Sportsman BigWater ePDL + 132, an electric kayak that functions similarly to an e-bike. It features a pedal-assist propulsion system, allowing users to venture further into the water. The kayak is equipped with a backlit LCD screen, push-button controls, and a 36-volt 20-ampere-hour lithium battery pack. It measures 13 feet and two inches long, weighs 122 pounds, and has a maximum load capacity of 500 pounds. The kayak is available for pre-order at $5,999.

FutureCar Staff Aug 30, 2023 11:37 PM PT

Electric Kayak: The E-Bike for the Water

Active mobility has been on the rise in urban areas worldwide, with e-bikes and e-scooters becoming increasingly popular. However, the pedal assist technology found in electric bicycles is now paving the way for a new type of recreational vehicle that goes beyond land.

An example of this is the Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL + 132. Despite its lengthy name, this electric vehicle is actually quite simple. It is a motorized kayak that operates similarly to an e-bike, except it doesn't have wheels and is designed for water use. It features a pedal-powered propulsion system, making it an aquatic e-bike of sorts.

The Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL + 132 is based on the non-electric Sportsman BigWater PDL kayak, so the concept is not entirely new. However, the addition of electric assist makes it much more versatile than a standard kayak, allowing users to venture further into the water. Like most e-bikes, it can also be manually pedaled with the motor turned off or even paddled with oars.

In terms of technology, the Sportsman BigWater ePDL + 132 is impressively equipped. It features a backlit LCD screen and push-button controls to select from five levels of pedal assistance. There are also five cruise control speed presets, making it easy to set your desired speed. The battery is a 36-volt 20-ampere-hour lithium pack, providing a range of three hours at level five and up to an impressive 46 hours at level one, though the actual range depends on factors like current, wind, and pedaling speed.

The kayak measures 13 feet and two inches in length and has a width of 35 inches. With a weight of 122 pounds, it is relatively easy to load onto a pickup truck or van. It has a maximum load capacity of 500 pounds, making it suitable for two adults or one person with plenty of fishing gear. Additionally, it comes with rod holders, cup holders, and a sealed cargo compartment at the front. The price for this high-tech kayak is $5,999.99 USD, and it is currently available for pre-order, with shipping expected to begin in early 2024.