August 11th 2026 – Old Town, Maine – Old Town Watercraft is building on the success of its first-of-its-kind ePDL+ drive technology, with the launch of the ePDL+ retroFit kit. This easy, drop-in solution transforms existing Old Town pedal kayak models into power-assisted watercraft. Designed for anglers and adventurers who crave greater range, less fatigue, and more time on the water, the ePDL+ retroFit kit brings next-generation propulsion to existing pedal kayak owners.

“With the ePDL+ retroFit kit, we’re giving our loyal pedal kayak owners access to the same power-assist and cruise-control technology that’s redefining modern kayak performance,” said Joe Lagos, Director of Brand Management at Johnson Outdoors Watercraft. “It’s all about extending time on the water and making the journey to your favorite spot faster, easier, and more enjoyable.”

Plug-and-Play Power
ePDL+ retroFit kit installation is hassle-free, dropping directly into the existing pedal drive console with no wiring required. Outfitted with a built-in kill switch and intuitive controls, you can simply drop in, power on, and go. Equipped with five selectable speed settings, the drive provides the same smooth, pedal-driven control Old Town anglers love, now with added power assist and fully motorized Cruise Control Mode, no pedaling required.

Three ePDL+ retroFit kit Configurations
The ePDL+ retroFit kit is available in three configurations, each dropping directly into existing pedal drive consoles of specific Old Town PDL hulls:

  • ePDL+ retroFit kit for the BigWater hull: Compatible with Predator PDL and Sportsman BigWater PDL models
  • ePDL+ retroFit kit for the Malibu hull: Compatible with Salty PDL, Malibu PDL, and Malibu Tandem PDL models
  • ePDL+ retroFit kit for the 120 & 106 hulls: Compatible with Topwater and Sportsman 106/120 PDL and PRO models

Each ePDL+ retroFit kit includes a 36V 6.5Ah lithium-ion battery and charger, providing up to 13.5 hours of runtime on Level 1 cruise control, 6.5 hours on Level 3 cruise control, and 1 hour on Level 5 cruise control, depending on conditions*.

Power Meets Heritage
As part of the award-winning ePDL+ lineup, the ePDL+ retroFit kit extends Old Town’s legacy of innovation, enabling more watercraft enthusiasts to experience the hybrid performance of manual pedal, power-assisted, or fully motorized propulsion. Whether navigating open water, tidal currents, or long stretches of river, the ePDL+ retroFit Kit empowers anglers to fish longer and recreational kayakers to explore farther.