In most pedal-electric watercraft, a motor assists the user's pedaling power, channeling the combined effort into a single propeller. However, the Pedayak Electric features two propellers in sequence. The front one (positioned at the boat's stern) is powered solely by pedaling, while the rear propeller is driven by a battery-powered motor.

This setup allows for three modes of operation: muscle power alone, electric power alone, or a combination of both, where pedaling and the motor simultaneously engage both propellers. According to L’Aquaphile founder David Adrian, this design offers a backup option—if the battery dies or the user becomes tired, they can still rely on manual propulsion. Additionally, the kayak includes a two-piece paddle that can be stored on deck.

The Pedayak Electric features an interesting steering system, where a horizontal rod beside the cockpit is moved forward and backward by hand to control a tiller at the back, which steers the motor/prop pod. The motor’s speed is adjusted using a waterproof wireless remote.

A single charge of the easily accessible lithium battery provides around three hours of runtime with electric-only power or up to seven hours when assisted by pedaling. The kayak’s motor can achieve a cruising speed of 10 km/h (6 mph).