Our own Mike Brewer’s very first car was a Mini, but if he were to buy this recently announced Classic Mini Kit from Swindon Powertrain, he would end up with something rather different. It follows the launch of its fully-built E Classic Mini back in 2019.
Costing £8850 excluding VAT, the Classic Mini Kit allows an owner to convert their own Mini to electric power. Mounted in the traditional sub-frame that benefits from the addition of special brackets, the HPD E Powertrain system comprises an 80kW brushless permanent magnet motor, a single-speed gearbox, and an open differential. Maximum torque is quoted at 136Nm.
Weighing in at 70kg the kit also includes special inner CV joint housings that allows those fitting the electric powertrain to utilise the standard Mini driveshaft assemblies. Optional extras include a satin black paint finish costing £168, and a limited-slip differential costing £598.
Suitable both for those already owning a classic Mini, or specialists looking to undertake conversions, it’s a clever proposition although it’s worth bearing in mind that extra expenditure is required if you want a car that’s ready for the road. Alongside the kit outlined above, Swindon Powertrain can provide a 12kWh battery pack, motor controller/inverter, on-board charger and DC-DC converter kit, along with speed sensor and cooling system pump kits.
Go the whole hog and buy everything needed for the conversion and you’d be looking at £31,103 before VAT, the battery alone accounting for £16,000 of that. So while it’s clear that ditching the characterful A-series engine for electric power isn’t going to be cheap, there’s sure to be demand from those looking to make the Alec Issigonis marvel fit for the 21st century.
“We’ve registered over 500 requests for more information on the HPD E system since it launched, many of which are classic Mini owners who are looking to convert their cars to run on electric power.” says 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.”
All of the parts are available to order now, with deliveries expected from December.
Find more info:
Swindon Powertrain
