Miata Electric Conversion - $5000 (Beaufort)

I converted this 1990 Miata to a pure electric. It performs well and is eerily quiet. I purchased the Miata with fresh paint, but a broken crank. It is now powered by a 9" diameter electric motor with enough torque to easily spin the tires in 1st and reverse. 35 lithium-ion batteries provide over 120 volt of power and yield a range of about 40 mile at 50 mph. I charge it over night on 110 volt, but the charging time can be cut by half by using 220 volts. It cost about 5 cents per mile to operate, and taxes are minimal. It has a manual transmission, but you only use the clutch to upshift or downshift. Just put it in second or third gear and step on the gas. I've never driven it over 60 mph (3rd gear), but it is capable of much higher speeds in 4th gear. I spent about $15,000 on this conversion, but I'll part with it for $5000 to make room in my garage for other projects. It is a fully functional car today, and an easy upgrade when improved batteries are available.