Difference Between Electric & Petrol-Powered Jet Skis

Electric jet skis have arrived on the market sooner than expected, and avid jet skiers are now trying to discover the differences between this new addition and the regular petrol-powered ones. While both have their own unique characteristics, here is a breakdown of their differences based on different features. 

Power 

The source of power is the primary difference between an electric and petrol-powered jet ski. As their names clearly indicate, an electric jet ski is powered through current, whereas regular jet skis are powered through fuel. Many other features that distinguish an electric jet ski from a petrol-powered one come mostly from their sources of power. 

Emission 

Comparatively, electric jet skis are said to be more environmentally friendly than the regular petrol powered ones. They don’t need oil changes, gas or any other parts replacement like with gas-powered jet skis. However, some also believe that electric jet skis may have certain other indirect emissions associated with their production process. 

Noise 

This is one of the features where electric jet skis have a key advantage; they emit less sound and create significantly less noise pollution compared to regular jet skis. This makes electric jet skis more suitable for waterways that are located near highly populated neighbourhoods. That way, you can be respectful to your neighbours or any other people on the beach or piers. 

Risk 

If you’re looking for the risk comparisons between these two types of jet skis, then the electric-powered jet skis are the better options. Gas is flammable and is a form of danger in its liquid form. At the same time, if these gas vapours accumulate inside the jet ski due to leaks, it can cause the risk of explosion. This is why for gas-powered jet skis, regular maintenance is extremely important. 

Servicing 

Electric jet skis need little-to-no maintenance; winterization is also not an issue with them as they lack exhaust or intercooler. While this makes them hassle-free, they may, however, need maintenance for the “just in case” scenarios. 

Regular jet skis (gas-powered) repair shops can be found in every corner, so they can be fixed easily, but if you have an electric jet ski, then the majority of these repair shops won’t be able to work with them as the technology is relatively new. 

Performance 

Jet Skiing is all about speed. The problem with electric jet skis is that they have less horsepower which makes them slow in comparison to a petrol-powered jet ski. So if you’re looking for the best option performance-wise, then the gas-powered jet ski is the one to go for. 

Running And Charging Time 

Electric jet skis have a limited running time, which on average is about 1.5-2 hrs. If your jet ski’s engine operates harder due to harsh weather, strong winds, or choppy water, the limited running time can reduce even further. Comparatively, regular jet skies can run for longer. 

Similarly, if a regular jet ski is out of fuel, you can easily refuel it in 5-10 minutes. But with an electric jet ski, doing this is not possible, as it may take hours to charge it fully. You can also refuel a petrol-powered jet ski in any dock near the waterways, which is, however, not possible for an electric jet ski. 

Choice And Availability 

Petrol-powered jet skis are available in a wide variety of choices, different colours, different sized engines, and other features. As of now, the production volume of electric jet skis is very limited when compared to regular gas-powered jet skis, making its availability limited. 

Above all these differences, it is also best to mention that when it comes to durability, electric-powered jet skis are a new technology, there’s not a lot of long-standing research on its longevity. This makes petrol-powered jet skis a much more durable choice.