New kit converts original Mazda MX-5 to electric power

Electrogenic, the British firm behind electric conversions for classics such as the Delorean DMC-12 and Mini, has launched a new kit for the original Mazda MX-5.

Designed to be completely reversible, it swaps the NA-generation roadster's four-cylinder petrol powerplant for a single electric motor.

This puts out 160bhp and 229lb ft of torque –  significant increases on the 128bhp and 110lb ft packed by the most potent version of the original engine.

It also replaces the original gearbox (either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic) with a new single-speed unit.

Acceleration is drastically improved: Electrogenic claims a 0-60mph sprint time of “around six seconds”, down from 8.5sec.

As well as extra thrust, the motor provides boosted stopping power via regenerative braking.

The strength of this can be adjusted using the various drive modes provided by the kit, such as Eco and Sport.

Electrogenic claims that its conversion yields a range of more than 150 miles between charges, thanks to the installation of 42kWh of battery capacity.

These are mounted under the bonnet (in place of the engine) and under the boot floor (replacing the fuel tank).

Although the batteries add 100kg to the car's weight, Electrogenic claims the set-up preserves the 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution that defines how the MX-5 handles.

“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,” said Steve Drummond, CEO of Electrogenic.

Charging is done via a CCS socket and takes an hour.

The conversion can be done to all 1989-1997 Mazda MX-5s, a spokesperson for Electrogenic confirmed to Autocar, and it takes around a week to install. Pricing has yet to be confirmed.