In a groundbreaking collaboration, Britain’s oldest active vehicle manufacturer, AC Cars, has unveiled the AC Ace Classic Electric at the SEMA 2024 show in Las Vegas. This unveiling marks the beginning of a new partnership with electrified performance technologies leader, TREMEC Electric GT, as AC Cars expands its range of exclusive sports cars and looks to the development of future models.
AC Ace Classic Electric
A harmonious blend of classic styling and cutting-edge powertrain design, the AC Ace Classic electric embodies the essence of iconic AC sports cars that date back to the famous Brooklands record-breaking car of 1922. The new roadster offers two distinct personalities, reflecting the evolution of the original AC Ace over its 10-year production run from 1953 to 1963.
The AC Ace Classic electric boasts a hand-laid carbon fiber body, featuring graceful rolling flanks and wheel arches that contrast the flat-sided original design. Inside, a unique hand-finished interior awaits, complete with classically styled leather sports seats. As with all AC Cars’ models, a bespoke service is available for clients who wish to configure their perfect AC Ace Classic electric to a unique masterpiece.
At its heart lies the TREMEC Electric GT turnkey eGT413 Modular EV platform, delivering 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 ensures the dynamics and handling of the car remain unaffected.
The AC Ace Classic electric features a 72 kWh battery installation that maintains a 50/50 weight distribution for predictable and balanced handling. Despite the impressive 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 standard, the new AC Ace Classic electric is available in red, white or blue, with a black hand-finished interior. However, bespoke commissions are always welcome. 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 retain the same graceful lines and craftsmanship that AC Cars is renowned for.
New Future for AC Cars
The AC Ace Classic electric represents not just a new chapter for AC Cars, but an exciting step forward for this sector of the automotive industry. A bold statement of intent, this new electric roadster combines the best of both worlds—the timeless elegance of classic sports cars and the cutting-edge technology of modern electric vehicles. It’s a tribute to the glory days of the AC Ace and all that followed, but with an eye firmly on the future.
Just 49 examples are set to be available at launch and can be reserved both at SEMA and by contacting AC Cars on their website here.