A British powertrain specialist has announced a kit that converts vintage Minis to electric power. Swindon Powertrain said its Classic Mini Kit starts at £8,850 ($11,500) and is designed for installation by classic car enthusiasts, specialists or EV-conversion shops.
Established in 1971, Swindon Powertrain produced high-performance engines and components for road and racing, including Formula 1 and continues to supply a majority of the starting fields for the British Touring Car championships. In 2010, it diversified into alternative power and electrification.
Swindon says its Classic Mini Kit will be available in December and will provide 80 kW of continuous power, with a 120 kW power peak) and has been designed “to ensure that no vehicle modifications are required.”
Since launching its electric-conversion system, “We’ve registered over 500 requests for more information… many of which are classic Mini owners who are looking to convert their cars to run on electric power.” said Swindon Powertrain commercial director Gérry Hughes.
“We have tried to make our kits as easy to use as possible, re-engineering and re-designing the package so that it fits perfectly in a classic Mini, and offer our clients the ability to take just the HPD E Powertrain system or purchase extra, optional EV parts.”
The new power unit weighs 154 pounds and has brackets that mount to the Mini front subframe. The kit includes inner CV joint housings that fit standard Mini front-axle assemblies and a standard differential, with a limited-slip setup as an available option.
For more information, visit the Swindon Powertrain website.
The electrification of vintage vehicles has become a trend in the collector car community.
Take it and all electric cars to the amusement park where they belong.