Britain’s oldest active vehicle manufacturer breathes new life into a classic, unveiling the AC Ace Classic Electric—a modern rendition of its most celebrated roadster, now fully electrified.
On November 5th, 2024, at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, AC Cars will unveil its newest innovation: the AC Ace Classic Electric, an all-electric sports car marking a seamless blend of classic British design with cutting-edge electrification. As the nation’s oldest active vehicle manufacturer, AC Cars will present the roadster in collaboration with TREMEC Electric GT, leveraging the power of TREMEC’s eGT413 Modular EV platform. The unveiling will occur at TREMEC’s booth (#21455) at 1:30 PM PST, giving enthusiasts a firsthand look at this landmark Anglo-American creation.
The Iconic AC Ace, Reimagined
The AC Ace Classic Electric, inspired by the timeless appeal of the original AC Ace and its famous descendant, the AC Cobra, represents a new era for a historic marque. Conceived at AC Cars’ UK facility and finalized in the United States, this electric roadster combines the charm of classic coachwork with TREMEC’s advanced EV technology. It will deliver an impressive 300 electric horsepower (225 kW) while maintaining a lightweight structure, weighing under 1,134 kg (2,500 lb). Equipped with a 72 kWh battery, the roadster is designed to offer a thrilling yet practical driving experience, boasting over 200 miles of range per charge and DC fast-charging capabilities.
Handcrafted Excellence Meets Electrification
AC Cars’ legacy of craftsmanship shines through in this limited-production roadster. Each vehicle will feature a hand-crafted carbon-fiber body, recalling the svelte lines and graceful flanks of the 1950s AC Ace. Inside, the car will present a refined, hand-finished interior, marrying traditional British craftsmanship with the modernity of TREMEC’s integrated EV platform. The AC Ace Classic Electric is available in two distinctive styles that pay homage to the original model’s evolution: the AC Ace Classic Electric, with the open grille design typical of later models, and the AC Ace Bristol Classic Electric, showcasing the ‘smiling face’ that graced its debut in 1953.
According to David Conza, CEO of AC Cars, “We are extremely excited to have TREMEC as our electrified performance technologies partner for the new AC Ace Classic Electric. The caliber of their work and the depth of knowledge have been instrumental in developing a car both companies are incredibly proud of.” Antonio Herrera, TREMEC’s Managing Director, echoed this sentiment, underscoring the significance of this partnership in showcasing TREMEC’s commitment to revolutionizing automotive powertrains.
Heritage and Performance Perfected
The new AC Ace pays tribute to its heritage while embracing contemporary performance standards. TREMEC’s eGT413 Modular EV platform, with its precision engineering and advanced electrification capabilities, promises the car will drive as dynamically as it looks. A true performance platform, it offers 400V and 800V power systems for robust torque and enduring peak performance. The AC Ace Classic Electric’s 400V system strikes a balance between power and efficiency, making this roadster an exceptional all-rounder for modern drivers.
In the 1950s, the original AC Ace quickly gained a reputation as one of Britain’s premier sports cars, admired for its light chassis and racing prowess, which led it to dominate the SCCA National Championships and earn multiple wins at the Sebring 12-Hour race. Its aluminum-bodied design, engineered by Eric George Gray, remains legendary among automotive enthusiasts. With this new electric version, AC Cars invites enthusiasts to experience the iconic lineage of the AC Ace in a design faithful to its storied past but powered for the future.
Available Now for Reservation
Priced at $275,000 (before taxes and personalisation), the AC Ace Classic Electric is available in limited quantities, with deliveries beginning in spring 2025. Both left- and right-hand drive options will be offered, catering to markets in both the United States and the United Kingdom. AC Cars’ website, ac.cars, now offers advance registration, allowing interested buyers to secure a place in line for this exclusive model.
About AC Cars and TREMEC Electric GT
AC Cars has a storied history stretching back to 1901, with roots in London’s West Norwood. From its innovative three-wheel commercial vehicle in 1904 to the legendary AC Cobra, the marque has built a reputation for excellence and exclusivity. Today, AC Cars operates with facilities in the UK and Germany, continuing to craft high-quality, hand-built vehicles while advancing its capabilities to meet modern demands.
TREMEC, renowned for its high-performance drivetrains and electrified solutions, brings a wealth of experience to this partnership. Established in 1964, TREMEC serves global markets across North America and Europe and is known for its reliable and innovative powertrain solutions.
The AC Ace Classic Electric promises to merge tradition with modernity, creating a thrilling experience that will resonate with both heritage enthusiasts and new-generation drivers alike.
