Article: Ultimate ePropulsion Evo Controls Guide: Tiller, Remote & Side Mount Explained
Ultimate ePropulsion Evo Controls Guide: Tiller, Remote & Side Mount Explained
The ePropulsion Evo control system is universal — the same throttle electronics work across the Spirit Evo outboards, the heavy-duty Navy Evo series, and ePropulsion’s electric Pod Drives. What changes is the controller you choose based on your boat’s layout and how you want to drive. Brendan walks through all three options and the one accessory you can’t skip in the video above.
Three Controller Architectures
1. Evo Tiller Control
The most direct option. The tiller control mounts physically to the outboard head and is purpose-built for inflatables, dinghies, skiffs, and smaller tender craft. A standard twist-grip handle — roll forward for forward throttle, twist backward for reverse. An integrated backlit digital screen on the tiller head displays live speed, power draw in watts, battery percentage, and remaining runtime. No remote display or helm wiring required.
Best for: Tiller-steered boats where simplicity and zero rigging are the priorities.
2. Evo Remote Control (Top-Mount Console)
Designed to bolt flat onto the top surface of a steering helm console — center consoles, small runabouts, and RIBs with a fixed helm station. A single-lever throttle handle with Forward, Neutral, and Reverse detents, plus integrated screen navigation buttons and a built-in telemetry display.
Wireless (Bluetooth) mode. Connects to the motor cord-free over Bluetooth. The wireless console is powered by an integrated solar panel on the frame.
Brendan’s pro-tip for wireless users: Always keep the physical communication wire stowed in a dry bag aboard. If you hit a multi-day stretch of overcast weather or the controller’s battery depletes, plug it straight in and switch to hardwired instantly. Don’t leave the dock without the wire.
Wired mode. A constant, shielded physical connection preferred for maximum reliability in commercial fleets or high-demand applications.
Best for: Helm console boats where you want a clean top-mount throttle with the option of wireless operation.
3. Evo Side-Mount Control
Designed to flush-mount vertically onto the side cockpit wall or the interior side of a steering console — mirroring the position of a traditional mechanical gas throttle. A rugged side-lever throttle handle with clear Forward/Neutral/Reverse positions. Because it mounts to the side wall, the entire top surface of the helm stays clear for a fish finder, tablet, or chart plotter. Data readouts are pushed to the synchronized Evo network display elsewhere in the system.
Best for: Boats with limited console top space, or where the traditional side-lever throttle position is preferred.
The Accessory You Can’t Forget: The Evo Remote Kit
If you choose either the Top-Mount Remote Control or the Side-Mount Control, you must also purchase the separate Evo Remote Kit.
The tiller arm controls both power and steering natively — the motor pivots when you move the tiller. Console throttles only manage power. The Evo Remote Kit provides the physical link rods and mechanical adapter components that connect the outboard to your boat’s mechanical steering cable column, so turning the wheel actually pivots the motor. Without the Remote Kit, a console throttle controls how fast you go but not where you go.
Compatibility: Current and Future
All three current-generation controllers are fully cross-compatible with the upcoming ePropulsion Spirit 2.0 Evo Remote outboard line. If you’re building a system now and planning to upgrade the motor later, the controller you install today will work with the next generation.
Quick-Reference: Which Controller for Which Setup
| Boat Type | Recommended Controller | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dinghy, inflatable, skiff | Evo Tiller | No additional accessories needed |
| Center console, RIB | Evo Remote (Top-Mount) | Evo Remote Kit required for steering |
| Limited console space | Evo Side-Mount | Evo Remote Kit required; keeps top surface clear |
| Commercial / high-uptime | Evo Remote (Wired) | Hardwired for maximum reliability |
Browse the full electric outboard lineup at Blue Marine. For a breakdown of the Spirit 1.0 Evo vs. Plus models, see our Spirit 1.0 Evo & Plus comparison. Questions about which controller works for your specific boat? Schedule a free consultation with our team.
Related reading:
ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Evo & Plus Explained: Features and Differences
Best Electric Outboard for a Sailboat Dinghy or Tender
How to Choose the Right Shaft Length for Your Electric Outboard Motor
