Electrogenic, the global EV technology company, has unveiled its latest game-changing ‘plug-and-play’ electrification kit: a cost-effective and fun package that converts the Mazda MX-5 (Miata) to clean, punchy, all-electric power.
The kit leverages Electrogenic’s market-leading, proprietary powertrain technology and integration software suite to create a thrilling, nimble, rear-wheel drive EV. Thanks to Electrogenic’s clever packaging and use of cutting edge, OEM grade componentry throughout, the electrified MX-5 weighs only 100kg more than the original ICE car, at circa 1100kg. The MX-5’s weight distribution remains identical, while the power to weight ratio is improved by 21%.
The MX-5 package further bolsters Electrogenic’s comprehensive EV conversion kit range – which already includes options for the DeLorean DMC-12, Jaguar E-type, Porsche 911, and classic Mini, as well as the Land Rover Defender and Series models. The kit is available for Mk1 MX-5/Miatas and is offered globally via Electrogenic’s network of vetted installer partners. As with all Electrogenic EV conversions, it is entirely reversible.
Steve Drummond. Electrogenic CEO, said: “We’re delighted to introduce the latest addition to our world-leading range of ‘plug-and-play’, EV conversion kits. We’ve long been intrigued by the concept of a light, well-balanced, rear-wheel-drive electrified modern-classic, one that truly delivers when it comes to the old-school thrill of driving. It seems we weren’t alone, as we’ve received a great deal of interest in the idea of an MX-5 conversion over the years. It’s exciting to finally reveal our creation to the world and give MX-5 fans the chance to electrify one of the most popular sports cars in history.”
Oxford-based Electrogenic is famed for its pioneering EV powertrain development work – including its range of ‘plug and play’ electrification kits – which easily convert iconic models to clean, all-electric drive, readying them for a future of low-carbon motoring.
Electrogenic is also known worldwide for its bespoke EV conversions, including the electrification of Jason Momoa’s 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II – the most complex EV conversion completed to date. The company also offers turn-key EV powertrain solutions for low-volume car manufacturers (OEMs) and the global defence industry.
The firm also recently launched a full EV integration technology suite. This includes its proprietary integration technology and Vehicle Control Unit (VCU), as well as its specialist electronics for body control, driver interface, energy management and more.
Sports Car Icon, Recharged
The EV package has been designed from the outset to be straightforward to install – and can be fitted by a trained mechanic in just a few days. Electrogenic’s team of engineers, programmers and fabricators have carefully engineered the electric powertrain solution to slot neatly within the MX-5’s existing structure, using CAD modelling and clever packaging to maximise the available space.
To create the package, an MX-5 was 3D scanned, with the battery assembly precisely tailored accordingly. The resulting conversion kit packages 42kWh of brand-new, OEM grade batteries under the bonnet in the space vacated by the 1.8-litre in-line four. Batteries are also installed in the rear, in place of the fuel tank; the boot space is untouched, so luggage capacity remains the same. The carefully-optimised battery installation is made possible thanks to Electrogenic’s proprietary, super-efficient battery assembly system – which offers unrivalled installation flexibility, and energy density.
Electrogenic’s engineers have also been careful to ensure the battery mass is tucked down in the car to keep the centre of gravity as low as possible – preserving the MX-5’s immediate, involving handling. As with all Electrogenic conversions, the MX-5’s original structure is entirely preserved; nothing is cut or drilled and the installation is entirely reversible.
The batteries feed a compact, power dense motor, which sends 160bhp (120kW) into a single speed, fixed ratio gearbox, delivering 2,500Nm of torque to the rear wheels (310Nm at the crank). The conversion can be applied to both manual and automatic MX-5s.
Thanks to the increase in power – up from 116bhp in the original car – the electrified MX-5 has much more sprightly performance. The 0-60mph sprint is dispatched in around 6 seconds, and the car runs on to a top speed of a top speed of 115mph, similar to the original. With its super light-weight, and new-found reserves of instant torque, performance is always effortless – giving the MX-5 excellent flexibility whatever the speed. Thanks to the immediate torque, it is also easier than ever before to enjoy the convertible’s famed RWD handling balance.
Electrogenic has devoted a great deal of time to finessing the electric MX-5’s software calibration, optimising the way it drives and delivers its performance. As with all Electrogenic EV conversions – the MX-5 is truly set apart thanks to the sophistication of its in-house developed software, and associated hardware integration.
Electrogenic’s tried and tested, proprietary Vehicle Control Unit (VCU) tech ensures that the EV powertrain’s myriad components work together in total harmony, ensuring the EV converted MX-5 drives with OEM-product polish, with expertly judged controls and natural throttle response.
The flexibility and control afforded by Electrogenic’s proprietary VCU software has also enabled Electrogenic’s engineers to dial a great deal of configurability into the MX-5’s driving experience. Each kit will be equipped with a series of selectable drive profiles to suit different scenarios, from a range-enhancing ‘Eco’ mode, to sharpened ‘Sport’ setting for maximum performance and more immediate throttle response. The kit also deploys carefully calibrated braking regen to assist the standard discs, with assistance ramping up as you cycle through the drive modes to Sport.
The converted MX-5 delivers 150+ miles of range in real world driving and can CCS rapid charge in just one hour.
Drummond concludes: “The MX-5, or Miata, is celebrated as a global automotive icon, with legions of fans all over the world, so we’ve taken our time developing the range of EV conversion kits for it. We wanted to get this package just right. We’ve been careful to ensure that the kits are well judged in terms of performance, to thrill and delight without intimidating – while preserving the inherent lightweight, RWD character of the car.
“We’re delighted with the results. There’s subtly enhanced performance, a new found muscularity – and thanks to that instant torque, the joys of the MX-5’s rear-wheel-drive handling balance are more accessible than ever before. This is all combined with zero tailpipe emissions and total reliability. The MX-5 is a defining take on a classic sports car recipe. Now, thanks to our Electrification kits, its special driving experience can be enjoyed by enthusiasts for many decades to come.”
