A 700W electric outboard converts to about 0.94–0.95 horsepower by the standard power formula, while a 2000W motor converts to approximately 2.68–2.72 horsepower.
However, the LiTime 24V 700W Argoseeker A1 is comparable to a 2HP gas outboard in small-boat use, and the 48V 2000W Argoseeker A2 is comparable to a 5HP gas outboard. These are propulsion-equivalent ratings based on thrust and on-water application—not direct watt-to-horsepower conversions.
What Is the Actual Watt-to-Horsepower Conversion?
The direct conversion is approximately 746 watts per mechanical horsepower or 735.5 watts per metric horsepower. By direct power conversion, A 700W electric motor is 0.94–0.95HP, and a 2000W motor is about 2.68–2.72 HP.
However, the higher figures describe their approximate gas outboard equivalent in the intended low-power boating applications.
| Argoseeker model | Rated electrical power | Direct power conversion | Official thrust | Approximate gas-outboard equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | 24V, 700W | 0.94–0.95HP | Up to 60 lbs | About 2HP |
| A2 | 48V, 2000W | 2.68–2.72HP | Up to 120 lbs | About 5HP |
The 2HP and 5HP are published first-party specifications for the Argoseeker electric outboard motor series.
Why a 700W Electric Outboard Equal a 2HP Gas Outboard?
The Argoseeker A1 can provide a boating experience similar to a small 2HP gas outboard because electric propulsion delivers useful torque immediately and avoids several losses associated with a small combustion engine.
A brushless electric outboard can deliver smooth, controllable torque from low speed and use a propeller designed around its operating characteristics.
The 24V 700W Argoseeker A1 produces up to approximately 60 lbs of thrust. LiTime recommends it for compatible 2.5–4.0m boats with a fully loaded weight of up to 350kg, including kayaks, canoes and small inflatable boats.
In that intended application, its acceleration, low-speed control and ability to move a lightly loaded craft can be comparable to the role normally filled by a 2HP gasoline outboard.
Why Is the 2000W Argoseeker A2 a 5HP Gas Outboard?
The A2 is described as a 5HP-equivalent electric outboard because its approximately 120-lb thrust and higher-voltage propulsion system target the types of small craft often paired with a low-power 5HP gas motor.
The 48V 2000W Argoseeker A2 has a direct rating of about 2.7HP. Nevertheless, its brushless motor, immediate low-speed torque and efficient propeller-driven output can provide a practical propulsion experience approaching that of a conventional 5HP gas outboard in appropriate displacement boats.
LiTime lists the A2 for compatible 3–5m boats with a fully loaded weight of up to 700kg, such as dinghies, aluminum boats and small fishing boats. It also produces approximately twice the rated thrust of the A1: 120 lbs versus 60 lbs.
“5HP equivalent” is an application-based comparison—not a claim that the motor outputs 5 mechanical horsepower.
Does Equivalent Horsepower Guarantee the Same Boat Speed?
No. Equivalent horsepower does not guarantee identical speed, acceleration or load-carrying performance on every boat.
Actual electric outboard motor performance varies with:
- Hull type and waterline length
- Total boat, passenger and equipment weight
- Propeller condition and motor mounting height
- Wind, current and wave conditions
- Battery voltage and state of charge
- Weight distribution and hull cleanliness
Thrust is especially useful for understanding low-speed pulling capability, but neither thrust nor horsepower alone can predict top speed.
For a realistic comparison, use the same boat, load, water conditions and test route. Measure speed, runtime and control response rather than comparing the label alone.
Which Argoseeker Model Should You Choose?
Choose the A1 for lighter portable setups and the A2 when the boat, load or operating conditions require substantially more thrust.
| Comparison | Argoseeker A1 | Argoseeker A2 |
|---|---|---|
| Rated power | 24V, 700W | 48V, 2000W |
| Maximum thrust | Approx. 60 lbs | Approx. 120 lbs |
| Gas-outboard equivalent | Approx. 2HP | Approx. 5HP |
| Recommended boat types | Kayaks, canoes, compact inflatables, and lighter fishing boats | Larger dinghies, aluminum boats, and small fishing boats |
| Recommended boat length | 2.5–4.0m | 3.0–5.0m |
| Maximum fully loaded weight | Up to 350kg | Up to 700kg |
| Compatible battery options | 24V 50Ah for shorter outings; 24V 100Ah for greater range |
48V 30Ah for compact setups; 48V 60Ah or 48V 100Ah for greater range |
Battery capacity affects range, not the motor’s horsepower rating. Before buying, confirm the boat’s loaded weight, transom compatibility, required shaft position and expected operating conditions. For a broader sizing process, see LiTime’s guide to choosing the right electric outboard motor for your boat.
Key Takeaway
The clearest answer is: LiTime Argoseeker 700W offers an approximately 2HP gas-outboard-equivalent experience in its intended small-boat applications. 2000W equals about a 5HP gas outboard in practical use.
Read More：
Why LiTime Argoseeker Is More Than a Motor?
How Lightweight Are Argoseeker Outboard Motors?
What Comes With the LiTime Argoseeker Electric Outboard Motor Kit?
