The beloved Mazda MX-5 is about to get an electrifying makeover, thanks to Electrogenic, a UK-based firm that specialises in electric vehicle (EV) conversions. They’ve developed a kit that transforms the nippy roadster into an environmentally friendly electric runabout.
Electrogenic has a history of giving classic cars a new lease on life with electric powertrains. They’ve previously created EV conversion kits for various models, including the DeLorean DMC-12, Land Rovers, and even the Jaguar E-Type.
This time, they’ve set their sights on the MK1 Mazda MX-5, also known as the NA generation among enthusiasts. The conversion kit includes a 161 hp electric motor driving the rear wheels and a 42 kWh battery pack, good for a range of up to 240 km.
This setup propels the MX-5 from 0 to 100 km/h in around 6 seconds and on to a top speed of 185 km/h. Impressively, all this adds only 100 kg to the car’s weight, and the battery can be fully recharged in an hour using a fast charger.
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If you’re concerned that the extra weight might affect the Mazda MX-5’s legendary handling, Electrogenic assures us that the weight distribution remains unchanged despite the electric conversion.
In fact, thanks to the electric motor’s higher output compared to the original 131 hp 1.8-litre engine, the power-to-weight ratio is improved by 21%. Installation is also straightforward, with the English firm saying that it only takes a trained mechanic a few days to install the kit.
Interested? Electrogenic has not provided any pricing information. The question remains if you are willing to ditch the old petrol drinking 1.8-litre engine to transform your Mazda MX-5 into a baby MG Cyberster?
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