Minn Kota's brushless QUEST motors cost about $800–$1,100 more than the brushed Terrova. In return you get more torque, longer runtime at high speed, dual 24/36V wiring and a better battery monitor. They also draw more at full throttle, which matters for your batteries.
What changes with QUEST
| Terrova 80 (brushed) | Terrova 112 (brushed) | Terrova QUEST (brushless) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 24V | 36V | 24V or 36V |
| Thrust | 80 lb | 112 lb | 90 lb / 115 lb |
| Max draw | 56 A | 52 A | 60 A |
| Shaft | Composite | Composite | Carbon fiber |
| Rated boat weight | up to ~4,000 lb | up to ~10,000 lb | ~4,500 lb (24V) / ~10,000 lb (36V) |
| List price | $2,299.99 | $2,599.99 | $3,399.99 |
Runtime and torque claims
Minn Kota says QUEST delivers up to 30% longer runtime and up to 50% more torque compared with a 24V brushed motor run at maximum speed. Brushless motors waste less energy as heat and have no brushes to wear, which is where the efficiency comes from.
Note the fine print: the comparison is at maximum speed. At slow trolling speeds the gap is smaller, and QUEST's 60-amp top-end draw means it can pull more from your batteries when you push it hard. We'll add our own bench numbers once testing is done.
What it means for your batteries
- Breaker and wiring: QUEST calls for a 60-amp breaker and wiring and plugs rated for 60 amps.
- Lithium BMS: choose lithium batteries rated for at least 70 amps continuous so the BMS doesn't shut off at full throttle.
- Flexibility: start at 24V with two batteries and add a third later for 36V and 115 lb of thrust, without buying a new motor.
- Battery monitor: QUEST shows time until empty and prompts an Eco mode at 20% charge.
Who should buy which
QUEST makes sense if
- You fish wind, current or big water
- You run Spot-Lock for hours
- Your boat is heavy or over 20 feet
- You may move from 24V to 36V
Brushed makes sense if
- You fish calm lakes and rivers
- Your boat is under ~4,000 lb loaded
- You want GPS for the least money
- You already own matching batteries
Check Terrova QUEST price Check Terrova 80 price
Sources: Minn Kota QUEST announcement; dealer listings at TrollingMotors.net for Terrova QUEST, Terrova 80 and Terrova 112. Checked October 2026.