Key Takeaways:
– AC Cars showcases electric model of the modern Ace at SEMA show in Las Vegas.
– Ace Classic Electric equipped with Tremec’s eGT413 Modular EV powertrain, delivering 302 hp.
– Gas models of Ace offer 300 hp from a Ford-sourced 2.0-liter turbo-4.
– Electric model expected to weigh less than 2,500 pounds.
– Reservations for the Ace Classic Electric are already underway, and deliveries to start in 2025.
– AC Cars Classics division will oversee the production of the modern Ace in the U.K.
Introducing the Modern Ace
UK’s oldest surviving car company, AC Cars, has introduced a modern version of their Ace sports car. This version comes in two forms: the Ace Classic and Ace Bristol Classic. However, during the upcoming 2024 SEMA show in Las Vegas, another form will be unveiled – the Ace Classic Electric.
Electric Powertrain Details
The Ace Classic Electric surprises with a powertrain supplied by Tremec – a well-known automotive supplier. This single-electric-motor system, known as the eGT413 Modular EV powertrain, delivers 302 horsepower. Combined with a 72 kWh battery that supports DC fast charging, this setup is expected to provide over 200 miles on a single charge.
The Modern Ace Gas Versions
Fuel enthusiasts are not left out. The Ace Classic and Ace Bristol Classic feature a Ford-sourced 2.0-liter turbo-4 capable of delivering around 300 horsepower. These models utilize a 6-speed manual transmission and drive power solely to the rear wheels. While there’s no word yet on the electric model’s transmission, automatics are common in most electric vehicles.
Weight and Design Details
AC maintains that the Ace Electric’s weight will be under 2,500 pounds, a figure comparable to the gas models. This is an impressive claim considering the added weight usually associated with electric models.
In terms of design, AC made use of original blueprints and historic cars when shaping the modern Ace. The body, constructed of carbon fiber, showcases some slight alterations, such as smooth rolling flanks replacing the original flat-sided design. The dimensions largely remain the same, catering to the appeal of the original design.
Model Differentiators
The Ace Classic design serves as the basis for the Ace Classic Electric, featuring the slimmer grille seen in later versions of the original Ace. This grille style also appears on the Cobra. On the other hand, the Ace Bristol Classic showcases the larger grille found on early Ace examples.
Preorder and Production Details
AC has begun accepting preorders for the Ace Classic Electric, with initial deliveries set for 2025. The starting price for the U.S. market is $275,000. The newly established AC Cars Classics division will handle the production of the modern Ace in the U.K., while electric versions destined for the U.S. will get their powertrains installed at a North American Tremec facility.
AC Cars’ commitment to mixing modern automotive technology with classic car designs provides a unique offer in the sports car market. The Ace Classic Electric represents the latest embodiment of this approach and will surely create a buzz at the SEMA show. As the transition to electric drivetrains continues, AC demonstrates that electrification and classic design can indeed coexist. Whether this will translate into commercial success remains to be seen. For now, anticipation builds for both the SEMA show and the launch of the Ace Classic Electric in 2025.