Back to the future: AC Ace Classic electric on show at SEMA 2024 in Las Vegas with TREMEC
11/05/2024
AC
AC Cars, Britain's oldest active vehicle manufacturer, has unveiled the AC Ace Classic electric at the SEMA 2024 show in Las Vegas with electrified performance technologies partner TREMEC Electric GT.
A stunning combination of classic styling and cutting-edge powertrain design, the new AC Ace Classic electric is a bold new model for the company behind many iconic AC sports cars, going back to the famous Brooklands record breaking car of 1922. The new roadster also marks the start of a new partnership between industry leader TREMEC and the British marque as it expands its range of exclusive sports cars and looks to the development of future models.
With a hand laid carbon fibre body, and a unique hand finished interior, the new AC Ace Classic electric perfectly encapsulates the halcyon days of sports cars, but packs the punch of a bespoke 300 bhp (225 kW) TREMEC EV powertrain With 500Nm (369ft lb) of torque and 200+ mile range, the new AC Ace Classic electric accelerates from 0-62mph in 4.9 secs and has a total battery capacity of 72 kWh. *
With just 49 examples available for the launch, the new AC Ace Classic electric can be reserved exclusively at the SEMA show and by visiting here.
Speaking at the SEMA show Alan Lubinsky, Chairman of AC Cars, said: "It's an honour to be at SEMA with TREMEC, and the response to the new AC Ace roadster has been phenomenal. To be able to craft such an amazing looking car that draws on the latest EV technology is a milestone for a company that's celebrating its 123rd anniversary."
Antonio Herrera, Managing Director of TREMEC added: "TREMEC and AC Cars are two companies that understand the importance of heritage and integrity, yet both are committed to challenging convention and breaking new ground. The development of the new AC Ace Classic electric has seen us embrace fresh thinking and new concepts in order to innovate, and we're excited about the road ahead together."
The new AC Ace electric is available to order now, and prices for this unique sports car start at $275,000 (£212,000) before local sales and state taxes. Deliveries for the first 49 cars will start in 2025. More details here.
AC Ace's high in Las Vegas
Proving a star attraction at this year's SEMA show in the Entertainment Capital of the World, the new AC Ace Classic electric shocked guests with both its brawn and beauty.
Fully integrated into the new roadster, the TREMEC Electric GT turnkey eGT413 Modular EV platform is a bespoke installation with 300 eHorse Power (225 kW) and 500Nm (369ft lb) of torque. With 100% of the torque available at 0 RPM, the AC Ace Classic electric retains the same reputation as a 'Streetable' car with race pace as did the 1950's original
Despite its speed, TREMEC's expertise in electrified performance technologies mean the dynamics and handling of the car are unaffected. With the 72 kWh battery installation in place the roadster retains a 50/50 weight distribution, for predictable and balanced handling, and despite the 200+ mile range the car only tips the scales at 1,134 kg (2,500 lb). DC Fast Charging completes the package to ensure the AC Ace Classic electric remains as functional as it is high spirited.
As with the petrol version of the AC Classic, the new electrified AC Ace will be available in two distinct personalities of car - reflecting the evolution of the original AC Ace over its 10-year production run 1953-1963.
For fans of the later cars the AC Ace Classic electric uses the open grille design of the AC Ace before its transformation into the famed AC Cobra, while the AC Ace Bristol Classic electric employs the earlier 'smiling face' that graced the model for its launch in 1953. Both models feature graceful rolling flanks and wheel arches, in contrast to the flat-sided original design.
In keeping with the historic company's reputation for unique coachwork, AC Cars follows traditional techniques to create and refine the car's graceful lines. However, also incorporates a precision carbon-fibre body that will be crafted at the company's facility on the UK's south coast. Immensely strong, yet light, the work employs the same techniques as AC Cars' flagship model, the AC Cobra GT Roadster.
As standard, and reflecting the two flags of this Anglo-American partnership, the new AC Ace Classic electric is available with bodywork in red, white or blue, and comes with a black hand-finished interior complete with classically styled leather sports seat. However, as with all AC Cars' model, a bespoke service is available that allows clients to configure their perfect AC Ace Classic to a unique masterpiece.
On display at SEMA 2024 on the TREMEC stand (#21455), the new AC Ace Classic electric and AC Ace Bristol Classic electric will be delivered as brand new, road registered cars. Just 49 examples of the roadster will be available for the initial production, priced at $275,000 (£212,000) before tax and any personalisation or bespoke options. Available as left-and-right-hand drive and intended for US as well as UK clients, each car will bear an official chassis number, denoting it as a true AC and a descendent of the historic AC Ace.
More details and reservations are available here.
AC Ace Classic electric - Specification*
Performance
Engine
TREMEC Electric GT eGT413
Induction
400v
Peak Power
300 bhp (225 kW) approx.
Battery size
72 kWh
Range
200+ miles
Top Speed
130 mph
0-100kh/h (0-62mph)
4.9 secs approx.
Peak Torque
500Nm (369ft lb) approx.
Brakes front and rear
Disc brakes with 4-piston callipers
Rims & Tires
15" wire wheels and tyres
Transmission and Chassis
Transmission
Direct Drive
Frame
3" steel tubular frame chassis
Drivetrain
Rear wheel drive
Steering system
Rack and pinion
Dimensions & Weight
Wheelbase:
2,286 mm (90 in)
Length:
3,848 mm (151.5 in)
Width:
1,579 mm (62.1 in)
Height:
1,245 mm (49 in)
Kerb Weight
1100 kg (2425 lbs) approx.
About AC Cars
The Weller Brothers established what is now Britain's oldest vehicle manufacturer in 1901, producing cars and motorbikes from their workshop in West Norwood, London. The nascent company produced its first vehicle in 1903, but the Autocarrier was introduced a year later (from which the name AC was later derived). This was the first three-wheel commercial delivery vehicle and proved an instant success.
However, the AC Ace cemented the company's status following its launch in 1953. With an aluminium body designed and built by Eric George Gray, it gained the respect of racing enthusiasts for its everyday practicality and pace. This was the car which would evolve to incorporate the Ford V8 and become the AC Cobra of legend.
Over the years the AC Cobra has endured, with its unmistakable shape and unique design. With production limited and every car built to an exacting standard, it remains reserved for exclusive clientele.
With its own facilities in the UK and Germany, AC Cars is working with leading industry suppliers for design and development, and construction, and the AC Cobra GT range heralds a new era in the production of the company's vehicles. In addition to its Donington HQ and facility on the south coast, AC Cars will continue to expand its development and production capabilities in the UK.
About TREMEC and TREMEC Electric GT
TREMEC(R) is a leading manufacturer of transmissions and drivetrain solutions for the global mobility industry. From supercars and high-performance sports cars to severe-duty agricultural, vocational and commercial vehicles, TREMEC is a well-respected brand for world-class transmissions and components. TREMEC solutions include iconic manual transmissions, dual-clutch transmissions, electric drivetrain solutions, clutches, friction materials, mechatronic systems, transmission control units and control software. TREMEC's products solve key challenges faced by the mobility industry, including mandates for increased fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, lower weight and compact size. Its technology addresses the industry's stringent requirements for reliability, cost and quality - while providing fun-to-drive characteristics.
TREMEC Electric GT is the leading provider of low volume manufacturing and aftermarket turn-key electrification and electrified powertrain platforms for automotive and general mobility applications. TREMEC Electric GT excels at providing cost effective modular platforms through fully engineered, designed, integrated and manufactured solutions.
TREMEC is accelerating the electric vehicle market by offering innovative 400V and 800V high performance electric drive systems. TREMEC's heritage of high-performance torque transfer core competencies will ensure leading edge technology solutions supporting a strong commitment to remain at the forefront of automotive technology. TREMEC's 800V electric drive unit (EDU) is a true titan of power, delivering a jaw-dropping 800 horsepower in a compact 243-pound package. This high-voltage system is not just about raw power. It's a finely tuned symphony of advanced technologies with integrated high voltage controllers and thermal management solutions that provide high performance capabilities in a non derated capability for maintained peak performance. While the 800V system steals the spotlight, TREMEC hasn't forgotten about the current 400V standard. By offering solutions for both voltage levels, TREMEC ensures its technology can be integrated into a wide range of EV platforms, from cutting-edge performance cars to more mainstream electric applications suiting all markets including marine, agricultural, military, off road and recreational product offerings.
Founded in 1964, TREMEC serves its global client base with over 2,400 employees and operations in North America and Europe. TREMEC is a wholly owned business unit of Grupo KUO, S.A.B. de C.V., a division of Grupo DESC, a diversified manufacturer of automotive, chemical and food products. Grupo KUO markets its products to over 70 countries and is headquartered in Mexico City, Mexico.