Ford has started selling an electric crate motor. Based on the one that powers the GT version of the Mustang Mach-E. The “Eluminator e-crate motor” makes 281 horsepower, 317 pound-feet of torque, and costs $3,900.

The motor is just the first in a series of EV building blocks Ford says it plans to sell. Like battery systems, motor controllers, and inverters. All of which would make it easier to retrofit internal combustion engine vehicles with all-electric drivetrains. Right now, those types of conversions are still mostly limited to specialty shops and hobbyists. Who often piece together parts from all sorts of random places in the supply chain.

Specs:  

• Peak power: 210kW (281hp)
• Peak torque: 430Nm (317 lb.-ft.) 
• Max speed: 13,800rpm
• Gear ratio: 9.05:1
• Weight:  93kg / 205 lbs

Includes: 

• HV motor to traction inverter harness
• LV harness/connector
• Vent tube assembly

Does NOT include:

• Traction inverter
• Control system
• Battery 

Where can I get it and how much?

Part No. M-9000-MACH-E, Ford’s new electric crate motor, is now available at an authorized Ford parts warehouse or dealer. Or online at Ford Performance Parts. Retailing at $3,900, it is targeted at builders looking for a transverse-oriented powertrain. To electrify a range of vehicles from modern to vintage cars, trucks, and SUVs. Each Eluminator e-crate motor produces 281 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque and is street-legal in all 50 states.

There are a few things to keep in mind. Ford doesn’t offer any battery packs, battery management, or power inverters. Though it has said it will offer more in the future. So you’ll need to supply your own from other companies. You’ll also probably need to have some solid fabricating skills, or the ability to hire someone with them. As the motor’s current configuration is for transverse applications like you would find in a front-drive car. So you can’t just make some motor mounts and bolt them to your old transmission or driveshaft. This may explain why the F-100 Ford-built rides on a completely custom chassis. Of course, the transverse layout is also what enabled Ford to pack two motors, one front, and one rear, into the F-100. Since there wouldn’t be a driveshaft and rear differential in the way.

What’s Next

Looking ahead, Ford Performance shared plans to develop a wider list of components to support the Eluminator powertrain. Including battery systems, controllers, and traction inverters. This will eventually allow for the expansion of, turnkey aftermarket packages. For builders to outfit their classics with a fully electric drivetrain.