'Crate' EV Motor for Car Builders Launched

An electric powertrain company targeting small, niche automakers and retrofit conversion companies has released its first complete ‘crate’ electric motor.

The UK’s Electrofit says the CM100KW1 compact motor is a permanent magnet synchronous (PMS) unit designed with a built-in inverter that significantly reduces costs and complexity of integration. As such it says the motor will retail at £5,250 plus VAT and world-wide shipping potential.

The motor can be used to drive an existing gearbox directly or has the option of being connected to a manufacturer’s single-speed transmission. The configurable motor and inverter assembly are supplied with a kit of components comprising a power cable, communications cable, coolant pipe connectors and motor installation instructions. The shipping crate is 600 x 600 x 760mm (23.6 x 23.6 x 27.5 inches) and weighs roughly 56kg (271lbs).

Electrofit can also provide a matched single-speed transmission that is designed to sync with the motor. The motor and transmission combined will provide a front-wheel drive setup of up to 201bhp and 191ft-lbs of torque. Transmission at launch is £1,000 + VAT.

Electrofit is a division of AEL, which has more 20 years of experience in integrating genuine OEM parts into bespoke applications and solutions. The company claims it can supply the complete solution to enable the fitting of its motor and inverter into sports cars, classic cars or commercial vehicles as well as providing the equipment to third-party vehicle builders.

— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_