A few short minutes cruising Ford’s website will show the company’s devotion to providing a substantial selection of crate engines. With the push for electric vehicles dominating the auto industry, it’s no wonder Ford made available the M-9000 MACHE electric motor for purchase. Ford sells all engines from its vehicles, from the reliable Coyote to the inline-four Ecoboost. These engines are built to spec, so assuming they are used as direct replacements, they will perform just as they would in the car they were intended for. Ford releasing the Eluminator as a crate motor opens all kinds of doors, not just to people looking to rebuild their cars, but hot rodders as well.

Where does the Eluminator come from?

Ford’s M-9000 MACHE comes from, obviously, the 2021 Mustang Mach E. It produces 281 horsepower with 317 lb-ft of torque, revs to 13,800 RPM, and weighs little more than a butterfly at 205 pounds. Some assembly is required, as the motor doesn’t come with a control system or battery. It also doesn’t come with a traction inverter, which converts DC power to AC power for the drive motor. 

How much does the Eluminator cost?

The M-9000 MACHE costs $3,900 for just the motor itself, according to Ford’s product page, which isn’t outrageous. However, the other parts may add up quite a lot. A traction inverter from GM costs $2,000, so Ford may not be far behind. The battery is what could cost a fortune. Owners are reporting warrantying their Mach-E battery replacement at around $38,000 including parts and labor. Considering the battery costs $18,000 and labor is at $4,000, this could be an inflated price from the dealership, according to this Mach-E forum.

Is it street legal?

The M-9000 MACHE has a disclaimer on the product page that says it’s 50-state carb compliant. It’s been deemed as a non-threat to the environment by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), and no wonder. It has zero emissions, thus cannot be smogged, and doesn’t produce harmful gasses. If purchasing the motor for electric conversion, luckily under California law it’s completely legal. Though, all pieces of the fuel system must be removed if it’s going to pass the mandatory inspection. Get familiar with the car’s state laws before undergoing the electric conversion.

Ford Eluminator perfect for an electric conversion?

Ford’s Eluminator is set at a reasonable price, produces great power, and is relatively light. On paper, it’s perfect for an electric conversion. Of course, the real challenge lies in getting a proper battery for the desired results. A Tesla Model S battery is considerably less than the Ford’s, at $12-13,000, which isn’t exactly cheap but is a step in the right direction. Either way, the Eluminator is a great starting point.

Ford is helping to preserve the hot rod culture

Both Ford and Chevy have created a reputation within the confines of emissions laws to keep hot-rodding alive with their crate engine options. Putting an electric motor in a car that was originally powered by gas is still hot-rodding, so Ford’s reputation remains unblemished. Once Chevy joins Ford, they could have the market cornered on electric hot-rodding.