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AC Cars, Britain’s oldest active vehicle manufacturer, has officially unveiled the AC Ace Classic electric at the SEMA 2024 show in Las Vegas in collaboration with electrified performance partner TREMEC Electric GT. This new electric sports car combines classic styling with cutting-edge technology, reflecting AC Cars’ heritage while embracing a modern EV powertrain.
Key Highlights:
- TREMEC Electric GT Powertrain: The unique powertrain provides 300 bhp (225 kW) and 500Nm of torque, allowing the vehicle to accelerate from 0-62 mph in 4.9 seconds.
- Limited Edition Availability: Only 49 units of the AC Ace Classic electric will be available for the initial launch.
- Carbon Fiber Craftsmanship: Features hand-laid carbon-fiber bodywork with a meticulously hand-finished interior.
- Range and Charging: Offers a range of over 200 miles, supported by a 72 kWh battery, with DC fast charging capability.
- Exclusive Reservations: Reservations available at SEMA or through AC Cars’ official website.
The AC Ace Classic electric features a combination of classic sports car elegance and modern electric vehicle performance. It continues the legacy of iconic AC sports cars, harking back to the brand’s heritage, including the famous Brooklands record-breaking model from 1922. The collaboration with TREMEC not only delivers a unique electric powertrain but also symbolizes AC Cars’ expansion into future EV models.
The vehicle is built with a hand-laid carbon fiber body, capturing the essence of classic roadsters, while the bespoke TREMEC EV powertrain delivers 300 bhp and a torque of 500Nm (369 ft-lb). This electric roadster maintains the exhilaration of vintage sports cars, with acceleration from 0-62 mph in just 4.9 seconds and a range of 200+ miles on a full charge, thanks to its 72 kWh battery.
Alan Lubinsky, Chairman of AC Cars, expressed enthusiasm at the launch, stating: “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 AC Ace Classic electric features a balanced 50/50 weight distribution, made possible by TREMEC’s expertise in electrified powertrain technologies, ensuring predictable handling dynamics without sacrificing its classic driving experience. Despite being equipped with a 72 kWh battery, the vehicle retains a lightweight frame at 1,134 kg (2,500 lb), enhancing its agility and road handling.
The vehicle will be offered in two distinct styles: the AC Ace Classic electric, featuring the open grille design reminiscent of the 1950s, and the AC Ace Bristol Classic electric, which carries the earlier ‘smiling face’ design from the model’s 1953 launch. Each model will include rolling flanks and sculpted wheel arches, in contrast to the flat-sided original design, offering an updated yet classic visual appeal.
The bodywork, available in red, white, or blue, is crafted from carbon fiber, following traditional methods while incorporating modern precision techniques. As always, AC Cars provides a bespoke service, allowing clients to configure their vehicles to personal preferences, turning their AC Ace Classic into a unique masterpiece.
The price of the AC Ace Classic electric starts at $275,000 (£212,000), excluding local taxes and personalization options. Available in both left- and right-hand drive, the limited-edition roadster is intended for customers in both the US and the UK, with deliveries beginning in 2025.
On display at SEMA 2024 at TREMEC’s booth (#21455), the AC Ace Classic electric and the AC Ace Bristol Classic electric promise a new chapter in AC Cars’ history, blending historic craftsmanship with state-of-the-art electric performance. With only 49 units available, each car will be marked with an official chassis number, underlining its heritage as a true AC car and a descendant of the historic AC Ace.
For more information on AC Cars and their lineup of vehicles, visit ac.cars.
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