Prototype 2020–2025
Detachable electric propulsion kit for inflatable stand-up paddle boards
Overview
E-SUP is a detachable electric propulsion kit designed for standard inflatable stand-up paddle boards.
The system consists of a waterproof control box mounted on top of the SUP and two electric motors integrated into fins mounted underneath the board.
Each motor is powered and controlled independently, allowing differential steering, redundancy, and modular servicing.
There is no need to adjust or change a standard SUP board — the system can be easily installed and removed as a true plug & play solution.
Install on any standard inflatable SUP board in minutes. No modifications required.
In Action
Full throttle on a Swiss lake — the E-SUP system powering an inflatable SUP with wireless handheld controllers.
Night ride with integrated LED strips illuminating the water — showcasing the system's auxiliary lighting capabilities.
Technical
Housed in a waterproof enclosure providing reliable power to both motor circuits.
Left and right motors operate on separate power and control paths for full redundancy.
Handheld wireless controllers provide independent throttle for each motor.
Electronic speed controllers actively cooled via closed-loop water circulation.
Secured using straps and standard fin rails — fits any inflatable SUP board.
Complete waterproof system architecture with sealed bulkhead connectors throughout.
Houses batteries, ESCs, receivers, and all internal wiring in a sealed environment.
Individual left/right motor power enable switches for independent control.
System and battery status indication for real-time monitoring.
Manual DC voltage monitoring for battery health checks.
Waterproof connectors for motor phase outputs and auxiliary connections.
High-current XT connectors, fused and strain-relieved for safety and durability.
Independent left/right propulsion units providing balanced thrust.
Structural mount and hydrodynamic element combining function and form.
Sealed motor power connections rated for continuous submersion.
Electronic speed controllers with active water cooling for sustained performance.
Active circulation pump driving coolant through the ESC cooling loop.
Closed cooling circuit inside the enclosure for reliable thermal management.
Highlights
Every component is sealed and protected. Waterproof bulkhead connectors, sealed enclosures, and strain-relieved wiring ensure reliable operation in aquatic environments.
Each motor has its own dedicated power bus, ESC, receiver, and controller. This enables differential steering and ensures the system remains operational even if one side fails.
The entire system installs and removes without any modifications to the board. Straps, fin rails, and quick-connect plugs make setup and teardown a breeze.
Two fully independent electrical drive systems allow precise directional control by varying the speed of each motor independently.
Single-motor operation is possible if needed. The system is designed so that each side can function autonomously, providing a safety net on the water.
Next Steps
The system is functional at prototype level and serves as a foundation for the following development tracks:
Optimize fin housing geometry, mounting mechanisms, and overall structural integrity for production readiness.
Reduce wiring complexity, consolidate connectors, and improve the power distribution architecture.
Transition from prototype-level waterproofing to production-grade sealing solutions suitable for mass manufacturing.
Conduct comprehensive testing and pursue relevant certifications for market entry.
Partners
The People
Oihan, Ernest, and Jacob — the E-SUP team at work in the workshop, prototyping, testing, and iterating on the next generation of electric SUP propulsion.