Abe’s Z-Force Mini: A Classic Reimagined with Electric Precision
What began as a persistent suggestion from Zero Motorcycles’ Director of Powertrain Applications Engineering, Micah Bayless, ultimately evolved into one of the most unique and ambitious electric conversion projects to come out of the company’s ranks. For Zero Motorcycles’ Chief Technology Officer, Abe Askenazi, the idea quickly grew from a casual conversation into a deeply personal engineering journey. Known for integrating Zero’s cutting-edge electric technology into an eclectic mix of personal builds—from a 1946 Gibson tractor to a podium-finishing 1973 Porsche 911 at Pikes Peak—Bayless once again sparked a project that would prove impossible to ignore.
The vision took shape when the opportunity arose to acquire a 1966 Mini in San Diego, originally owned by a racer who had blown its engine. What might have been a setback for most became the perfect foundation for an electric transformation. With Bayless already en route to Southern California transporting his Porsche, the Mini was conveniently added to the trailer and delivered, setting Askenazi on course to finally realise his long-held dream of owning a classic Mini—this time, reimagined through the lens of modern electric performance.
Rather than pushing the limits with a radical or experimental configuration, Askenazi approached the project with a clear engineering philosophy: to integrate Zero Motorcycles’ production-ready powertrain as seamlessly as possible. The goal was to transplant the complete system from a 2020 Zero SR/S into the Mini with minimal modification, effectively creating a vehicle in which the powertrain would operate as if it were still housed within its original motorcycle platform.
The transformation began with a complete strip-down of the Mini, removing all internal combustion components along with its legacy electrical system. In their place, the Zero SR/S powertrain would take over entirely. One of the most complex challenges quickly became apparent—translating a motorcycle-based electric drivetrain into a front-wheel-drive automotive layout.
The original Mini’s ingenious design had integrated the transmission and differential within the engine itself, leaving little more than front CV joints once removed. Working alongside Bayless and Zero Motorcycles’ Powertrain Technical Specialist, Ryan Biffard, Askenazi arrived at a creative solution: the integration of a front differential from a BMW X5, paired with a belt-driven sprocket system. This setup delivered a reduction ratio of 5.0, resulting in an estimated 0–60 mph time of just five seconds and a top speed of 75 mph—figures that transform the compact classic into a genuinely rapid machine.
Additional components, including the sprockets, belt, and accelerator pedal, were sourced from the Ranger Kinetic project developed with Polaris, further expanding the real-world application of Zero’s technology.
Packaging the system into the Mini’s compact architecture proved to be another engineering puzzle. With limited space available, the team approached the layout like a game of Tetris. The objective was to house the primary powertrain components within the front engine bay, while relocating the charger to the rear—occupying the space once used by the fuel tank—to maintain a balanced weight distribution.
With assistance from Calfee Designs and the use of detailed cardboard mock-ups, a viable configuration was achieved. Once finalised, the actual components were installed, and the integration process was completed over several intensive weeks. Key contributions from Zero Motorcycles team members, including vehicle control specialist Will Brunner and R&D fabrication engineer Josh Roton, played a crucial role in bringing the concept to life.
The result is a remarkably cohesive system. Beyond the high-voltage drivetrain, the Mini’s entire low-voltage functionality is powered by Zero’s 12V system. The only original component retained is the windshield wiper motor—a small but notable exception. The SR/S dashboard has been repurposed as the Mini’s instrument cluster, while custom-mounted motorcycle switchgear provides intuitive control via a fabricated mini handlebar attached to the steering column.
Electrically, the architecture remains almost identical to that of the donor motorcycle, with only minor adjustments such as harness extensions, unused connector terminations, and the addition of a Bluetooth audio system.
On the road, Askenazi’s Z-Force Mini delivers an experience that far exceeds expectations. Instant torque and effortless power make it capable of spinning its tires with ease, while offering an engaging and exhilarating drive that has quickly made it a favourite among family, friends, and colleagues alike.
The journey hasn’t been without its lessons. An early oversight required the replacement of the BMW differential after it was discovered to be operating in reverse within the front-wheel-drive setup. It was subsequently replaced with a rear-wheel-drive unit from a Mazda Miata. Brake development also proved to be a time-consuming challenge, but ongoing refinements have steadily improved both performance and comfort.
Throughout the process, the Zero SR/S powertrain has performed flawlessly, providing Askenazi with invaluable hands-on insight into the company’s technology. More than just a personal project, the build has become a rolling showcase of Zero Motorcycles’ engineering capability and adaptability.
Ultimately, Abe Askenazi’s Z-Force Mini is far more than a converted classic—it is a bold statement of innovation, blending heritage design with cutting-edge electric performance in a way that feels both authentic and forward-thinking.
Photo credits: Zero Motorcycles and Abe Askenazi
