Transport Correspondent
Electrogenic
A small company in Kidlington, Oxfordshire, has developed a technique to convert classic sports cars such as the Mazda MX-5 into electric vehicles. This innovative startup, known as Electrogenic, has taken on a traditional model and given it a modern makeover, aligning with the growing appetite for electric vehicles.
Electrogenic specializes in converting a 20-year-old Mazda MX-5 into an electric model. Despite being a relatively new venture, the company has seen significant success, with two-thirds of its sales originating from the United States, matching the sales from the rest of the world combined.
Electrogenic’s Conversion Technology
Electrogenic has innovated a battery system and software solution that is versatile enough to fit almost any vehicle. Their mission is to make electric conversions accessible and feasible by empowering competent mechanics to install these systems in any garage using custom software.
The company prides itself on its adaptability, having successfully converted Jaguars, VW Beetles, and even a 1929 Rolls Royce into electric vehicles. Notably, they provided an electric Rolls Royce to Hollywood actor Jason Momoa, showcasing their ability to work on high-end, iconic cars.
Steve Drummond, the founder and chief executive of Electrogenic, emphasizes the dual benefits of their conversion. “For many, electric conversion is driven by environmental concerns. However, the electric MX-5 also delivers more power, providing instant torque and a beautiful driving experience,” he explained.
Moreover, they offer a kit for converting the classic British Mini into an electric car. With this front sub-frame kit, mechanics can easily transform a Mini into an electric car within a few simple steps. Drummond details the process: “Once you attach the wheels and integrate it into the car, wire up the dashboard, and you’re ready to drive.”
Another standout project for Electrogenic is a battery-powered Land Rover. According to systems engineer Alex Bavage, “The electric version is smoother, quieter, easier to drive, and easier to maintain, making it more enjoyable overall.”
Military Applications and Future Prospects
Electrogenic has not limited its expertise to consumer vehicles. They have also built four electric combat vehicles for the British military. These vehicles offer several advantages in combat scenarios, including lower noise levels, easier handling, and a smaller thermal signature, making them harder to detect by enemy forces.
Additionally, the batteries mounted in these vehicles can be used to power other equipment, making the electric conversion versatile and practical.
In just six years, Electrogenic has grown rapidly, amassing a team of 25 skilled professionals who have completed nearly 100 vehicle conversions to date.
For the immediate future, the company plans to expand its operations in the United States, aiming to capitalize on its growing market presence. However, according to Drummond, their ultimate goal is to make a significant impact in Africa.
Drummond’s background in designing nuclear power stations globally guides his vision for Africa’s electric vehicle landscape. He notes, “While Africa lacks oil reserves, the continent boasts abundant sunshine, an asset that could drive its electric vehicle adoption.”
He foresees a scenario where legislation in Europe gradually restricts the sale of petrol and diesel vehicles, encouraging their owners to sell them in Africa. In response, Electrogenic aims to provide straightforward, low-cost conversion kits, helping these vehicles run on solar energy and reducing their contribution to climate change.
Driving the Electric MX-5: Experience and Feel
The electric MX-5 retains much of its classic feel. However, it naturally lacks the iconic sound of its internal combustion predecessor. Despite the silence, the vehicle offers increased power and better performance characteristics.
One notable change is the absence of a clutch or gearbox, along with the addition of power regeneration on the brakes, which creates a unique driving experience.
MX-5s are renowned for their agility and lightness, attributes that are invaluable for enthusiast drivers and casual users alike. While the electric conversion adds 30kg to the car’s weight, this is a relatively minor increase compared to the 20% enhancement in power.
Sport mode in the electric MX-5 allows for quick acceleration, but drivers need to be cautious, as the vehicle can easily lose traction with the additional power.
Although MX-5s are not particularly fast, their charm lies in the joy they bring on each drive. As Drummond concludes, “The electric conversion is certainly a step up in performance, but it’s still a car that brings smiles per mile. It may not be the original MX-5 you fell in love with, but it retains much of what made that car unique and delightful.”
As conversions continue to rise, companies like Electrogenic play a crucial role in aligning legacy models with modern trends. Their innovative approach to electric conversions stands out, offering solutions not just for sports car enthusiasts, but also for African markets where second-hand vehicles are abundant.
The journey of the Mazda MX-5 from being a joyful, if noisy, classic to a high-performance electric vehicle demonstrates the potential of electrification. And as Electrogenic’s Steve Drummond notes, “It’s not about finding a car that drives like an MX-5. It’s about finding the MX-5 that drives with electric power,” encapsulating the company’s strategic vision.
Conclusion
Electrogenic’s unique approach to electric vehicle conversions offers a glimpse into the future of sustainable driving. As they target both the enthusiast and the African markets, their work highlights the role of innovation in adapting to the evolving environment and meeting consumers’ needs.
Company founder Steve Drummond’s background adds a unique dimension to their mission, showing how his experience in nuclear power has translated into a powerful vision for electrified sports cars and eco-friendly transportation.
With over 100 vehicles converted and plans for expansion, Electrogenic is undoubtedly a player to watch in the electric vehicle world.
If you’re intrigued by these conversions or interested in sustainable transportation options, don’t forget to leave your comments below. And be sure to subscribe to Archynetys for more updates on the exciting world of electric vehicles and automotive technology.
