The electric Mazda MX-5 is here thanks to Electrogenic

EV conversion specialist Electrogenic has revealed a drop-in kit for the iconic Mazda MX-5.

The firm said it was responding to numerous requests for an electric Mazda MX-5 setup based on its in-house powertrains.

The ‘plug-and-play’ system is designed to slot easily into a Mark 1 MX-5 and maintain all the fun of the original car with zero tailpipe emissions.

The original four-cylinder engine has been replaced with a new Electrogenic motor producing 160bhp – up from the 116bhp the car left the factory with. Torque is also boosted to 184lb ft, resulting in instant response and a 0-60mph time of just 6 seconds, compared with the original’s 9 seconds.

Providing the energy is a 42kWh battery array split between the engine bay and the former location of the fuel tank. Thanks to the splitting of the battery system and clever positioning, the car’s (tiny) boot hasn’t been reduced any further and, more vitally, the perfect 50:50 weight balance has been maintained. The batteries have also been mounted as low as possible to maintain the Mazda’s low centre of gravity and razor-sharp handling.

The electric Mazda MX-5 is also only slightly heavier than the petrol version, weighing in at 1,100kg, compared with around 1,000kg for the first-gen roadster.

Steve Drummond. Electrogenic CEO, said: “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.”

The electrified MX-5 offers a range of 150 miles and can be charged in an hour via CCS rapid charging. Electrogenic has also developed progressive regenerative braking and bespoke drive modes ranging from eco to sport to allow drivers to maximise range or enjoy the full MX-5 experience.

Like Eletrogenic’s other kits for models such as the Delorean DMC-12, Jaguar E-type and classic Mini, the electric Mazda MX-5 conversion is installed without cutting or drilling the original car and is fully reversible.

Drummond added: “The MX-5, or Miata, is celebrated as a global automotive icon, 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.”