Oxford, UK-based Electrogenic has unveiled its latest “plug-and-play” electrification kit for conversion of the new-age classic Mazda MX-5 Miata to all-electric power to create a nimble, rear-wheel-drive EV.

Thanks to clever packaging and the use of OEM-grade componentry, the electrified sportscar scales in at around 1100 kg (2425 lb), or only 100 kg (220 lb) more than the original internal combustion engine car. The MX-5’s weight distribution remains identical, while its power-to-weight ratio is improved by 21%.

The kit is available for Mk1 MX-5 Miatas and offered globally via Electrogenic’s network of installer partners. As with all the company’s conversions, the car’s original structure is preserved, with nothing cut or drilled, so the installation is reversible. The Mazda EV package is designed to be straightforward to install and can be fitted by a trained mechanic in just a few days.

“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, Electrogenic’s CEO. “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 MX-5 package bolsters Electrogenic’s EV-conversion-kit range that includes options for the DeLorean DMC-12, Jaguar E-type, Porsche 911, classic Mini, and Land Rover Defender and Series models. The company recently launched a full EV integration technology suite that includes its proprietary integration technology and VCU (vehicle control unit) as well as its specialized electronics for body control, driver interface, and energy management.

Electrogenic’s team of engineers, programmers, and fabricators 3D scanned the car and engineered the electric powertrain solution to slot in the MX-5’s existing structure using CAD modeling to maximize the available space.

The conversion kit packages 42 kW·h of new OEM-grade batteries installed under the car’s hood in the space previously occupied by 1.8-L inline four-cylinder ICE and in the rear in place of the fuel tank. The truck space is untouched, so luggage capacity remains the same. Engineers located the batteries to keep the center of gravity as low as possible to preserve the MX-5’s handling. The battery installation is made possible by a proprietary assembly system that Electrogenic says offers unrivaled installation flexibility and energy density.

The converted MX-5 delivers more than 150 mi (241 km) of range in real-world driving and can CCS rapid charge in just 1 h. The batteries feed a compact, power-dense 120-kW motor—up from 116 hp (87 kW) in the original car—that sends its output through a single-speed gearbox, delivering 310 N·m (229 lb·ft) “at the crank” and 2500 N·m (1844 lb·ft) at the rear wheels.

Thanks to the output increases, the electrified MX-5 is quicker, with 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) acceleration in around 6 s, but the 115-mph (185-km/h) top speed is like the original’s. The car’s light weight and motor’s instant torque mean overall performance is “effortless and easier to enjoy.”

Electrogenic engineers devoted a great deal of time to finessing the electric MX-5’s software calibration, optimizing the way it drives and delivers its performance. They developed the VCU software to ensure that the powertrain components work in harmony so that the EV drives with OEM-product polish, with “expertly judged” controls and natural throttle response.

An added benefit is “a great deal of” configurability for the driving experience with a series of selectable drive profiles from a range-enhancing Eco mode to a Sport setting for maximum performance and more immediate throttle response. The kit deploys carefully calibrated braking regen to assist the standard discs, with assistance ramping up as users cycle up through the drive modes to Sport.

“We’re delighted with the results,” said Drummond. “There’s subtly enhanced performance, a new-found muscularity—and thanks to that instant torque, the joys of the MX-5’s rear-wheel-drive handling balance are more accessible than ever before. This is all combined with zero tailpipe emissions and total reliability. The MX-5 is a defining take on a classic sports car recipe. Now, thanks to our electrification kits, its special driving experience can be enjoyed by enthusiasts for many decades to come.”

Electrogenic’s conversions are developed at its Oxford HQ and workshop, with the “drop-in” kit range offered internationally. Each conversion reflects the company’s approach to developing and manufacturing its own technology, which includes in-house designed software, printed circuit boards, and digital dashboards, as well as vehicle management technology that can integrate any of the latest motors and battery modules to incorporate the best new tech.

The conversions use highly innovative mechanical componentry, including a unique system for creating high-density battery packs, as well as exceptionally compact in-line and transverse reduction transmission systems, all manufactured in the UK.