Project Ex-8

Inductive Autoworks' 2005 Mazda RX-8 Electric

Project EX-8: completed in Fall 2021 - Pictured above at a local EV event.

Specifications:

  • Nissan Leaf EM-61 Motor (207 ft-lbs of torque)
  • Nissan Leaf Inverter
  • Valeo Siemens 6.6kw charger
  • Orion BMS2 Battery Management System
  • Nissan Leaf 70amp DC-DC Converter
  • 16 kWh Battery (yes this is small – this was built to be a testing platform)
  • ~2500lbs, 50/50 front-rear weight balance
  • Inductive Autoworks prototype integration controller – retains factory electric power steering, gauges, throttle, adds PWM water pump and fan control
  • Inductive Autoworks parking actuator for Nissan Leaf motor
  • Custom modified rear subframe and CV axles
 
 

The Build Process

Removal of ICE Components
The first step in our project was to remove the gasoline rotary engine and all of the related components such as the fuel tank and exhaust system.
Modification of the Rear Subframe
We heavily modified an OEM subframe to allow us to mount a Nissan Leaf motor and gearbox between the rear wheels while retaining the factory suspension.
Battery Box
We designed and built a custom battery box to house the LG Chem packs which would power our EV. The inner structure is pictured here.
Component Fitting
We test fit the battery box and subframe several times to insure proper clearances.
Final Installation and Wiring
Once all of the major components were installed, there was a significant amount of wiring needed. The new EV has two isolated CAN bus systems, and eight new 12 volt circuits were added as well as over a dozen new signal wires.

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