- Offers better power-to-weight ratio, only 220 pounds more than original Miata
- Required creative use of space to accommodate 42 kwh—and 150-mile range
- Electrogenic claims conversion is fully reversible
Electrogenic has launched an electric conversion kit for the Mazda MX-5 Miata, which the U.K.-based company claims will preserve the sports car’s nimble handling traits.
In a press release, the company claims a weight increase of only 220 pounds over the stock version, at 2,425 pounds, but with a 21% improvement in power-to-weight ratio and identical weight distribution (these comparisons are based on a first-generation NA Miata rather than newer models). Range for this fully electric Mazda MX-5 Miata is estimated at about 150 miles.
Electrogenic 3D-scanned a Miata and designed the battery setup to fit into whatever space was available. It managed to cram 42 kwh of battery modules into the small sports car, placing them under the hood where the gasoline inline-4 engine would normally be, and in the rear space normally occupied by the fuel tank. This leaves trunk space unchanged, while keeping mass as low in the chassis as possible, Electrogenic claims, adding that the conversion is entirely reversible.
Electrogenic electric MX-5 Miata conversion
Electrogenic electric MX-5 Miata conversion
Electrogenic electric MX-5 Miata conversion
A single electric motor produces 160 hp and 228 lb-ft of torque. The conversion retains the stock rear-wheel drive setup, and while Electrogenic notes that it can be applied to automatic or manual-transmission cars, actual drive is through a single ratio, as in most electric cars. Electrogenic claims a 0-60 mph time of around 6.0 seconds and a 115-mph top speed.
Electrogenic also includes a range-focused Eco drive mode and a Sport mode that provides more immediate throttle response. Regenerative braking is incorporated as well, with intensity ramped up in Sport mode.
Electrogenic electric MX-5 Miata conversion
Electrogenic electric MX-5 Miata conversion
Electrogenic electric MX-5 Miata conversion
Electric conversions for big SUVs have become rather common, as there’s a lot of space and they’re easy to get right for that reason. But Electrogenic has done some cool conversions over the years of some distinctive cars, including a Citroën DS and a classic Mini. And it even recently worked with Kia to mark its 80th anniversary with a restomod.
Up until now EV conversions have primarily been very specialized hobbyist projects, mostly for special-interest vehicles, and unless you really know what you’re doing in procuring used packs and parts, they can be expensive. But a California bill proposed last year sought to change that with a rebate for EV conversion projects. A few companies have attempted to build lower-cost conversion kits—France’s Transition One, for instance—but none with large-scale success yet.