Okay, here are 2 questions I thought I would never ask.
What is the difference between the Torqeedo and the Spirit 1.0?
What is the down side of each electric motor?
Dan, I don't own either. I'm only a prospective buyer. What I found out so far is based on the latest/greatest model from each brand. The Torqueedo Travel 1103C and the ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus.
Spirit Plus price is $1,999. ePropulsion Travel 1103c is $2,699. Torqueedo made in Germany, ePropulsion in China.
The Spirit 1.0 Plus has a 1276wh battery, Travel 1103c has 976wh. Spirit claims 50% more run time at full throttle 75 minutes vs. 50 minutes. Spirit has a quicker recharge using the standard charger for each, 8.5 hours vs. 10.5 hrs. Spirit battery floats, the ePropulsion does not. Travel 1103c standard solar charger is 50w, Spirit Plus is 180w.
Spirit has an external battery connection and runs at 48v, easy to wire your own batteries. ePropulsion is not wired for external battery and runs at 29.6v, more difficult to use an external set up.
The Spirit tiller is integrated, Travel 1103c is separate. Spirit only tilts up 38 degrees which can interfere with tilting the motor all the way is there is a backbench on the transom. The Travel 1103c tilts up 70+- degrees.
Spirit Plus lower unit is smaller, less drag.
Torqueedo has a mobile app and also shows GPS for range purposes. Spirit Plus does not have GPS or a mobile app.
There are a couple of other smaller differences but those are the main ones I can find. The only advantage, beyond the included GPS and mobile app, I can find to the Torqueedo are that they have been in business longer and are more proven in the marketplace.
Again, I don't own either and have no association with either. If anyone knows of Torqueedo's advantages I would really like to hear them.