Forget gas engines, this drop-in electric replacement is all you need
Do you have any old, outdated gas-powered tools you'd like to give a new lease on life? If so, Makita has a neat new product you'll absolutely love. Makita is launching a 40V max XGT electric motor unit, which is a 25 to 50cc gas engine replacement electric motor you can drop in, bolt on, and go.
At the World of Concrete 2026 tradeshow this week, Makita announced[1] its next-generation gas-replacement solution, and it looks pretty great. While the main use of the XGT motor unit is for power tools, it could extend well beyond into fun DIY projects like Go-Karts and more. The possibilities are endless.
A few years back, Makita completely discontinued production of its expansive collection of gas engine products, moving to all-electric power tools for enthusiasts, professionals, DIY types, and more. Since then, Makita has continued its efforts to deliver exceptional power tools and neat battery-powered accessories[2].
Makita's New XGT All-electric Motor Unit
Credit: Makita
Makita's new motor unit is an all-electric motor that runs on its popular 40V XGT battery platform, one that many owners likely already have for drills, impact wrenches, leaf blowers, and more. The idea here is you can buy the XGT motor unit, install it on older gas-powered tools, and give them a touch of modern technology that'll allow them to keep running for years to come.
All you need is the motor unit and a few 40V battery packs, and you're all set. Additionally, this essentially blends its new and modern cordless power tool line with those from yesteryear. In the press release, Makita specifically mentions several of its concrete tools, like a screed, trowel, and concrete vibrators, but that's only the beginning.
The company also talked about how OEMs don't have to invest thousands in battery-operated tools. Instead, this single purchase lets them compete with other big-name brands like Milwaukee, while being just as powerful and quiet, without the gas/oil mess and smell. "Remove the gas engine, bolt on a Makita-powered motor, and instantly gain access to the same battery platform that powers over 170 XGT tools and equipment."
Related
5 new Makita tools worth buying in 2026[3]
Some excellent new Makita tools just arrived. Makita's 18V platform of power tools is great, but the larger 40V XGT line is built for professionals.
In recent years, that line has expanded to more than 170 items, which you'll often see on a jobsite. Here's what Mario Lopez, director of product, Makita U.S.A. had to say: "Over the years, we've delivered solutions that replaced cords, gas, and air on the jobsite. But we saw an opportunity to expand even further into gas engine replacement."
The power tool company says its new electric motor delivers the same performance as 25-50cc gas-powered tools. Moreover, the XGT Motor Unit features a universal mounting system, adjustable RPMs to fit specific tools or tasks, and an adjustable throttle response mode. It also packs in features like a clutch shaft, different threaded spindle drive types, and it's IPX5 rated for dust and water.
I wouldn't necessarily call this a consumer-grade product, as it's geared more towards professionals and OEMs, but I'm already starting to imagine all the ways I can tinker with this neat little electric motor. It's basically a complete 2-stroke motor replacement, and I want one. Pricing has yet to be announced, but it'll be available in North America later this summer.
References
- ^ Makita announced (makitatools.com)
- ^ neat battery-powered accessories (www.howtogeek.com)
- ^ 5 new Makita tools worth buying in 2026 (www.howtogeek.com)
- ^ Makita (makitatools.com)