Electrogenic has developed an EV conversion kit for the NA-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata. While the curb weight increases slightly, the added power compensates for the gain. The swap is fully reversible without requiring any modifications to the sheet metal or chassis. The first Mazda MX-5 Miata, which came out in 1989 and was praised by almost everyone, was a unique and innovative take on the traditional British tiny roadster. Now, 35 years later, the Miata is a classic, still reasonably priced, and a lot of fun to drive. Since they are so common, consider making an EV restaurant. The UK-based company Electrogenic is here to help. Electrogenic, on the other hand, is not a Frankenstein monster; instead, it is more of a sympathetic engine swap. Batteries that turn cars into electric ones usually make fans dig out their pitchforks and torches, especially when it comes to a prized, lightweight sports car. This is what you’d expect from a company with such a big portfolio. For example, Electrogenic has already made electric versions of the DeLorean DMC-12, the Jaguar E-type, and even a matte black 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II that was custom-made for star Jason Momoa and looks ominously beautiful. It was even in the Citroën DS, which was the old car that needed an electric motor the most. The Citroën still has manual gear, but the Miata can only move forward and backward when it becomes an electric vehicle. The heavy original 1.6-liter or 1.8-liter engine has been replaced by a 42.0-kWh battery pack. Some batteries are hidden where the gas tank used to be to distribute the weight more evenly. Although the total power climbs to 229 pound-feet of torque and 161 electric horses, keep in mind that the curb weight only increases by 220 pounds as mentioned. You’re driving with Momoa in the passenger seat, bringing an extra surge of power to overcome any inertia. Plus, the Electrogenic switch can be used either way because it doesn’t need any frame changes or sheet metal cutting. It can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in six seconds, which is more than enough for a weekend trip. When attached to a DC fast charger, Electrogenic says it takes about an hour to charge fully. Does it stay true to the original NA-generation Miata? Unfortunately, not at all. Adding weight and taking away the beautiful manual transmission do not improve the recipe, and neither does the loss of the induction noise that comes with a combustion engine. But an electric roadster that weighs about the same as a current MX-5 RF is fun. You can calm down; the change will only last for a short time. Also, a Miata is a great example of enjoying the ride without caring what other people think. Electric vehicle purists might not be interested in Electrogenic’s change, but they might buy an old Japanese roadster instead.
