Picture this: you're gliding across the water, the only sounds are the gentle lapping of waves and the chatter of friends. There are no smelly exhaust fumes, no rattling engine, just instant, quiet power at your fingertips. This isn't some far-off dream; it's the reality of boating with a Mercury electric outboard. This technology is spearheading a massive shift away from noisy, high-maintenance petrol motors, bringing clean, quiet, and incredibly user-friendly power to inflatable boats all over Australia.
Why Electric Outboards Are Reshaping Boating

For decades, the boating experience was tied to the constant drone of a petrol engine, the lingering smell of fumes, and the endless cycle of maintenance. It was just the way things were. But a huge change is happening, driven by boaters who want a simpler, cleaner, and more immersive way to connect with the water.
It’s a lot like the evolution we've seen in the car industry. Just as electric cars swapped out complex combustion engines for silent, efficient motors, the Mercury electric outboard is doing exactly that for the marine world. The Mercury Avator series, in particular, is leading the charge right here in Australia.
A New Standard of Simplicity and Enjoyment
For anyone wondering "What are the best inflatable boats for recreational use available near me?", pairing one with an electric outboard is often the answer. The benefits are immediate and game-changing. Electric outboards get rid of all the usual headaches that come with petrol motors. No more oil changes, no more spark plug replacements, and forget about fuel stabilisers. Your maintenance routine shrinks to little more than a quick freshwater rinse after a day out.
This simplicity carries over to how they handle. With intuitive controls and instant torque, an electric outboard delivers smooth, responsive power without the jarring vibration of a petrol engine. The whole experience is just fundamentally better:
- Silent Operation: You can actually hold a conversation without shouting. It's perfect for fishing without spooking your catch or just enjoying the natural sounds around you.
- Eco-Conscious Adventure: With zero direct emissions, you can explore sensitive waterways knowing you’re leaving almost no trace behind.
- Effortless Handling: Their lightweight design makes carrying and installing them on an inflatable boat incredibly easy—a huge plus for anyone who values portability.
The Haswing Ultima 3.0 Vs Mercury Electric Outboards
As you dive into the electric outboard market, you'll undoubtedly come across the Haswing Ultima 3.0. While both Mercury and Haswing offer fantastic electric options, they take different approaches. Mercury’s Avator series is all about a sleek, all-in-one system with integrated, swappable batteries, delivering a premium experience that feels more like a high-end electronic device.
The Haswing Ultima 3.0, on the other hand, often appeals to boaters looking for robust performance with a more modular setup, usually involving a separate, larger battery. We'll dig into this comparison more later, but it just goes to show how diverse the market for electric outboard motors in Australia is becoming. This shift to electric isn’t just a passing trend; it's a complete redefinition of what a day on the water can be.
Exploring the Mercury Avator Electric Motor Series

Stepping into the world of the Mercury Avator series isn't just a small upgrade—it's a whole new way of thinking about outboard motors. If you've ever driven an electric car, you'll immediately get what makes the Avator so special: instant torque. There's no lag and no revving up. You just get smooth, immediate power the second you twist the throttle. This responsiveness is what makes the Avator motors so intuitive and fun to use on the water.
Mercury has clearly designed this lineup for boaters, not engineers. They've moved away from confusing technical jargon and put the focus squarely on the user experience. The technology behind it is smart, but using it is dead simple.
Decoding the Avator Models
The Avator lineup uses a clever naming system that connects electric power back to the petrol performance we all know. It takes the guesswork out of choosing the right motor for your boat.
- Avator 7.5e: This is the perfect starting point, giving you performance that feels just like a 3.5hp petrol outboard. It’s ideal for small tenders, jon boats, and compact inflatables.
- Avator 20e: A step up, the 20e delivers thrust similar to a 5hp petrol motor. This makes it a fantastic all-rounder for larger inflatables and small fishing boats.
- Avator 35e: At the top of the current range, the 35e packs a punch equivalent to a Mercury 9.9hp four-stroke outboard, easily pushing heavier loads.
That little 'e' in the name is Mercury’s way of making the switch to electric easy. It translates all the complex electric motor tech into a power level you already understand.
Designed for the Real World
Beyond raw power, Mercury has obsessed over the small details that make a massive difference during a day out. The tiller handle, for example, is a masterclass in smart design. It’s not just for steering; it folds down to become a convenient carrying handle—a brilliant touch for anyone with an inflatable boat.
The real showstopper, though, is the vibrant, full-colour display. This isn't just a basic battery gauge; it's your command centre.
This smart display gives you everything you need at a glance: your current speed, battery level as a percentage, and most importantly, your remaining range in real-time. It completely gets rid of "range anxiety" by telling you exactly how much further you can explore.
Another stroke of genius is the swappable battery system. Think of it like the battery packs you see on professional power tools. When one runs low, you don’t have to pack up and head for the dock. You just slide it out and click a fresh one into place. This quick-connect, tool-free design means you can extend your adventure in seconds.
The initial rollout of the Avator series in Australia has been met with huge interest. The Avator 7.5e was snapped up quickly, while the newer 20e and 35e models were showcased to an eager crowd at the Sydney International Boat Show. The stated Australian pricing for these bigger models is $12,900 AUD for the 20e and $13,200 AUD for the 35e, with both packages including two batteries.
This shows a real shift among Aussie boaters towards quiet, emission-free power, especially in our beautiful, environmentally sensitive waterways.
Ultimately, Mercury has built the Avator series to be a seamless step into the future of boating. It's a clean, smart, and powerful system that just works. For those who need to maintain their motor, you can find more information about genuine Mercury outboard parts and their importance. The Avator lineup proves that going electric doesn’t mean making compromises—it means getting a better experience.
What This Means for Inflatable Boat Owners
Let's move past the tech specs for a moment. How does a Mercury electric outboard actually change your day on the water with an inflatable boat? The real magic isn't just in the numbers; it's how the smart design solves the everyday frustrations that come with traditional boating. This isn't just a new motor—it's a completely different way to enjoy your time.
If you own a portable boat, you know the drill. Setting up and packing down can be a real chore. Petrol outboards are often heavy, awkward, and messy, leaving fuel or oil spills in the back of your car. Mercury’s Avator motors are a breath of fresh air—lightweight, perfectly balanced, and featuring a clever tiller handle that doubles as a comfortable carrying grip. Getting from your car to the water’s edge has never been easier.
Experience the Sound of Silence
Imagine casting a line into a glassy inlet without the constant drone and vibration of a petrol engine. This is the first thing you'll notice when you switch to a Mercury electric outboard. Its near-silent operation lets you get closer to nature, hold a conversation without shouting, and—most importantly for anglers—approach your favourite fishing spots without scaring everything away.
This quiet performance creates a peaceful, immersive atmosphere where you can actually hear the environment around you. For families, it means a more relaxing day on the water, where the focus is on fun and connection, not engine noise.
The Freedom of (Almost) Zero Maintenance
One of the biggest headaches of owning a petrol motor is the never-ending maintenance schedule. Oil changes, spark plug replacements, fuel stabilisers, and complicated winterising routines are not only time-consuming but can get expensive. A Mercury electric outboard gets rid of all that.
Your new to-do list is beautifully simple:
- Rinse with fresh water after use (especially in saltwater).
- Check the propeller for any tangled fishing line or debris.
- Charge the battery so it's ready for your next trip.
It’s a "grab-and-go" approach that means you spend less time tinkering in the garage and more time actually enjoying your boat. That’s a level of convenience petrol motors just can’t touch.
The core advantage is shifting your focus from engine upkeep to pure enjoyment. Instead of worrying about fuel mixes or engine servicing, you can trust your motor is ready to go whenever you are.
Powering Your Adventures with Confidence
"Range anxiety" is a real concern for anyone looking at electric motors. Mercury tackles this head-on with an intelligent, swappable battery system. The bright, full-colour display gives you a real-time countdown of your remaining battery life and range, so you're never left guessing.
And when you want more time on the water? You don't have to cut your trip short. The tool-free, quick-connect battery design lets you swap in a fresh power pack in a matter of seconds. This turns a potential weakness into a major strength, giving you the confidence to explore further.
Mercury Avator Models At a Glance
Choosing the right motor can feel daunting, but it's all about matching power to your boat and your needs. The Avator range makes this simple. Here’s a quick look at how the models stack up for inflatable boat owners in Australia.
| Model | Power Equivalent (Petrol) | Ideal Boat Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avator 7.5e | 3.5 hp | Small tenders, car-toppers, compact inflatables (up to 3m) | Ultra-portable and perfect for quiet, short-range trips. |
| Avator 20e | 5 hp | Mid-size inflatables (3m – 3.8m), aluminium dinghies | Excellent all-rounder with tiller or remote steering options. |
| Avator 35e | 9.9 hp | Larger inflatables (3.8m+), small RIBs, fishing tinnies | Serious power for carrying heavier loads and handling currents. |
This lineup shows how Mercury is perfectly positioned for the Aussie market. The 7.5e is a dream for solo anglers with a car-topper, while the 20e and 35e provide enough grunt for family days out or more serious fishing trips on larger inflatables.
This shift to electric is part of a much bigger trend. The Asia-Pacific electric outboard engine market, which includes Australia, was recently valued at USD 210 million, with recreational boating making up a massive 55.4% of that. This boom is being driven by boaters in coastal hubs like Sydney and Brisbane who value the clean, quiet performance of motors like the Mercury electric outboard. Unlike other regions that rely on government subsidies, Australia's adoption is market-led—boaters here are willing to invest in sustainability and lower running costs. Projections show huge growth in the mid-power segment, which confirms that motors in the Avator range are exactly what Australian boaters are looking for. You can dive deeper into the Asia-Pacific market trends in this detailed report.
Mercury Avator vs Haswing Ultima 3.0
When you're looking to compare prices and features of inflatable boats in your area and their motors, two electric names will pop up again and again: the Mercury Avator and the Haswing Ultima 3.0. Both are brilliant motors, but they come at the problem from completely different angles. This isn't about picking a clear "winner" – it's about figuring out which motor's philosophy matches what you actually need out on the water.
This isn't just a spec sheet showdown. We're going to break down the real-world differences in performance, battery setup, build quality, and how they feel to use. Think of Mercury as the premium, all-in-one system with big brand muscle, while Haswing offers a seriously compelling, value-packed alternative.
Performance and Real-World Power
Out on the water, both the Mercury Avator 7.5e and the Haswing Ultima 3.0 deliver that beautifully quiet power electrics are known for. The Avator 7.5e, which Mercury rates as equivalent to a 3.5hp petrol motor, gives you instant, silky-smooth acceleration. That's thanks to its slick transverse flux motor technology. It feels incredibly responsive, perfect for getting smaller inflatables and tenders moving without any fuss.
The Haswing Ultima 3.0, rated at a 3hp equivalent, is no slouch either. It’s built a reputation for being a reliable workhorse, using a gearless, direct-drive brushless motor that provides fantastic thrust for its size. For most boaters in typical conditions, the on-water performance difference feels pretty minor. That means other factors, like the battery system, often become the deciding vote.
Battery Design: Integrated vs Separate
This is where the two motors really show their different personalities. Mercury has gone for a sleek, integrated battery system. The 1kWh lithium-ion battery on the Avator 7.5e clicks into the top of the motor housing just like a high-end cordless drill. It’s clean and clever.
- Quick-Connect System: The batteries are totally tool-free, making it a breeze to swap a fresh one in and extend your day on the water.
- All-in-One Portability: With the battery removed, the motor unit is lighter and easier to manage. You’re carrying two smaller, more manageable pieces instead of one big one.
Haswing, on the other hand, uses a separate, floating battery pack. This design has its own unique strengths. The battery is completely waterproof and buoyant, which is a massive relief if you ever accidentally fumble it overboard. You can get a better sense of their rock-solid systems by reading about why Haswing electric outboard motors are known for being reliable.
So, what’s the right choice? It really boils down to your personal preference. Are you drawn to the clean, unified look of the Mercury, or do you prefer the practical, bomb-proof design of Haswing's separate battery?
Mercury's approach feels modern and streamlined, perfect for boaters who love convenience and a polished look. Haswing's design is arguably more utilitarian, focused on ruggedness and get-it-done simplicity.
To help you weigh these different design philosophies, here is a side-by-side comparison of the key features.
Feature Showdown: Mercury Avator 7.5e vs Haswing Ultima 3.0
This table breaks down the technical specs, battery systems, and key user features of these two leading electric outboards, giving you a clear picture of what each one brings to the water.
| Feature | Mercury Avator 7.5e | Haswing Ultima 3.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Power Equivalent | 3.5hp | 3.0hp |
| Motor Technology | Transverse Flux | Brushless Direct Drive |
| Battery System | Integrated, Quick-Connect (1kWh) | Separate, Floating Pack (1.03kWh) |
| Display | Full-Colour Digital LCD | Simple Digital LCD |
| Tiller Handle | Multi-Function, Adjustable | Standard Ergonomic Tiller |
| Build Quality | Premium materials, refined finish | Robust, marine-grade aluminium and plastics |
| User Experience | High-tech, data-rich, intuitive | Utilitarian, straightforward, durable |
| Best For | Boaters seeking premium tech and integrated design | Practical boaters valuing ruggedness and affordability |
As you can see, the choice isn't about which motor is "better," but which one is better suited to your specific needs, budget, and style of boating.
Build Quality and User Experience
As a giant in the marine world, Mercury has poured its decades of engineering know-how into the Avator series. The build quality is simply outstanding. You can feel it in the premium materials, the tight assembly, and the overall refined finish that just screams durability. The multi-function tiller and vibrant full-colour display are the real stars, offering a user experience packed with data that’s miles ahead of anything else in its class.
This infographic helps visualise the core benefits that draw boaters to electric options like these.

It’s clear that whether your goal is to enjoy nature, simplify transport, or cut down on maintenance, a mercury electric outboard ticks all the right boxes for modern boaters.
Haswing might not have the same brand recognition as Mercury, but they've carved out a solid reputation for building tough, dependable motors that just work. The Ultima 3.0 is made from high-quality materials designed to take a beating in harsh marine environments. The user interface is more direct—a simple digital display and a sturdy tiller. It’s less flashy than the Avator, but it's incredibly effective and built to last for years.
Which One Is Right For You?
In the end, it really comes down to your budget and the kind of experience you want on the water.
The Mercury Avator 7.5e is the premium pick. It offers a sophisticated, fully integrated system with a beautiful display and the peace of mind that comes with a global brand. It’s the perfect motor for the boater who wants the latest tech and a seamless, user-friendly package.
The Haswing Ultima 3.0 is the value-driven powerhouse. It delivers honest, reliable performance and a rugged design at a much more accessible price point. It’s a fantastic choice for the practical boater who puts durability and straightforward function above all else.
No matter which way you go, both motors will completely change your time on the water, offering a quiet, clean, and genuinely enjoyable alternative to petrol.
How to Install and Maintain Your Electric Outboard
One of the biggest questions I hear from boaters thinking about switching to electric is about the technical side of things. Is it a nightmare to install? What’s the maintenance like? The great news is a Mercury electric outboard is designed from the ground up to be incredibly simple, letting you focus on the fun stuff – being out on the water.
Forget everything you know about spark plugs, fuel filters, and messy oil changes. That world is a thing of the past. Electric ownership is all about convenience, making boating easier and more accessible than ever.
Getting Your Avator Ready to Go
Mounting a Mercury Avator on your inflatable boat is refreshingly straightforward. If you’ve ever wrangled a small petrol outboard, you’ll find this process is an absolute breeze. Its lightweight and balanced design means one person can easily lift it and clamp it onto the transom without a struggle.
Once the motor is securely attached, the real magic happens. The battery connection is completely tool-free, designed to be as simple as clicking a battery into a cordless drill. You just slide the 1kWh battery pack into its slot until you hear a solid click. That’s it. You’re ready to launch.
This hassle-free approach is at the core of the Avator series. It’s all about removing the old barriers to boating and making it more enjoyable for everyone, no matter how confident you are with a wrench.
A Radically Simple Maintenance Routine
When we say maintenance is minimal, we really mean it. The seasonal checklists that come with petrol engines are gone. Keeping your Mercury electric outboard in top condition boils down to three basic steps that take just a few minutes after each trip.
By making this simple routine a habit, you’ll ensure your motor is always ready for your next adventure.
This shift from complex mechanical upkeep to simple, preventative care is one of the biggest wins of going electric. It gives you back valuable time you can spend exploring Australia's beautiful waterways instead of tinkering in the garage.
Your New Three-Step Checklist
Keeping your electric outboard running perfectly is easier than you think. There are no complicated procedures, just a few common-sense habits that will protect your investment for years.
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Rinse with Fresh Water: This is the most important step, especially after you've been in saltwater. A good rinse with fresh water gets rid of corrosive salt and grime, protecting the motor’s finish and internal components.
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Inspect the Propeller: Before you pack up, give the prop a quick visual check. Look for any tangled fishing line, weeds, or debris that could affect performance or damage the seals down the track.
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Practise Smart Charging: Always use the Mercury charger that came with your motor. For long-term battery health, it’s best to avoid leaving it completely flat for long periods. Just charge it up after your trip so it’s ready for the next one.
That’s your entire maintenance schedule. It’s a world away from the demands of a traditional petrol motor, proving that modern boating tech is all about making your life easier. For more in-depth tips, you can explore our comprehensive guide covering all aspects of outboard maintenance, which offers valuable insights for any motor type.
Where to Buy a Mercury Electric Outboard in Australia
Alright, you’ve seen what the Mercury Avator can do and you’re probably asking the big question: "Where can I get my hands on one?" Making the jump from just looking to actually owning one is pretty simple in Australia, as long as you know where to go. Buying a Mercury electric outboard isn't just about the initial purchase; it’s about getting set up with the right people for years of hassle-free boating.
The single best decision you can make is to buy from an authorised Mercury Marine dealer. I know it can be tempting to chase online deals from sellers you’ve never heard of, but trust me, an authorised dealer provides a level of security and know-how that’s worth its weight in gold.
Why Authorised Dealers Are a Must
Going through an official channel means your motor is fully covered by Mercury's comprehensive Australian warranty. That’s your safety net if anything goes wrong. Plus, these dealers have factory-trained technicians who know the Avator series inside and out—they’re the ones you want for reliable servicing and genuine advice.
Authorised dealers also give you:
- Expert Guidance: They’ll help you match the perfect Avator model to your inflatable boat and how you plan to use it.
- Genuine Parts and Accessories: You get access to the proper chargers, spare batteries, and props designed to work perfectly with your motor. No guesswork involved.
- Hands-On Demos: Many dealers can set up a demonstration, letting you feel the quiet power of a Mercury electric outboard for yourself before you pull the trigger.
Finding a Dealer and What to Look For
The easiest way to find a local dealer is to use the official Mercury Marine dealer locator on their Australian website. It’ll show you a map of authorised sales and service centres all over the country, from the big cities to smaller coastal towns. When you get in touch with a local dealer, ask them about package deals. You can often find great value bundles that include the motor, battery, charger, and even installation.
Connecting with a local expert transforms the buying process from a simple transaction into a long-term relationship. They become your go-to for maintenance questions, accessory upgrades, and troubleshooting, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.
Comparing Prices and Features
Before you lock anything in, it's always a good idea to compare your options. Different dealers might have unique packages or special promotions running. If you're looking to compare prices and features of inflatable boats in my area; what options do I have?, an authorized dealer can provide a complete breakdown. To get a clear idea of what to expect on the price front, check out our guide to Mercury outboard motor pricing. It gives you a detailed cost breakdown and helps you figure out the total investment, especially if you’re thinking about grabbing extra batteries for longer days out.
By making a smart choice through an authorised dealer, you're not just buying a motor—you're investing in peace of mind and countless perfect days on the water.
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers
Here are the honest, straightforward answers to the questions we hear most about the Mercury electric outboard. This is all about giving you the practical details you need to feel confident about making the switch for your inflatable boat.
How Far Can I Go on a Single Charge?
This is the big one, isn't it? Your exact range will depend on your boat's size, how much weight you're carrying, your speed, and of course, the water conditions. The beauty of the Avator is its smart display, which gives you real-time range estimates to take all the guesswork and anxiety out of the equation.
To give you an idea, the 7.5e model will give you about an hour of runtime at full throttle. But if you're just cruising at a relaxed pace, you'll get significantly more. The real game-changer is the swappable battery system—just bring a spare, click it in, and you’ve instantly doubled your range for a full day on the water.
Is It Powerful Enough for My Inflatable Boat?
Absolutely. Let's be clear: these aren't just glorified trolling motors. Mercury has engineered its electric outboards to deliver performance that rivals their petrol counterparts. The high-torque design means you get fantastic acceleration right when you need it.
- The Avator 7.5e performs just like a 3.5hp petrol outboard, making it perfect for tenders and smaller inflatables.
- The bigger 20e (5hp equivalent) and 35e (9.9hp equivalent) models have no trouble powering larger inflatables, even when loaded up with a few passengers and gear.
It’s not just about raw power, but usable power. The instant torque from a Mercury electric outboard often feels even more responsive than a petrol motor, especially when you’re getting up to speed from a standstill.
How Long Does the Avator Battery Take to Charge?
Charging is designed to be simple and convenient. Using the standard charger that comes in the box, a 1kWh Avator battery will recharge from empty in about 8-10 hours from any regular wall socket. It’s as easy as plugging in your phone overnight.
Need a faster turnaround? Mercury also offers an optional fast charger that cuts that time by over 50%. This is brilliant if you're planning a morning and afternoon session on the water and need to get charged up quickly in between.
Can I Use It in Saltwater?
Yes, you certainly can. Every Mercury electric outboard is built tough to handle harsh marine environments, including saltwater. They’re made with corrosion-resistant materials and coated with durable finishes to stand up to the sea.
Just like with any marine engine, though, it's a great habit to give it a thorough rinse with fresh water after each use in the salt. This simple step stops salt from building up and will keep your motor running in top condition for years to come.
Ready to feel the quiet, clean power of a Mercury Avator for yourself? Easy Inflatables is your authorised Australian dealer for high-performance inflatable boats and the perfect electric outboard to match. If you want to find a place in Australia to hire inflatable boats for a family outing or to purchase your own, we can help you explore the best options. Come and explore our range of boat and motor packages today.
Find Your Perfect Electric Outboard Package at Easy Inflatables



