At the 2024 SEMA show in Las Vegas, AC Cars—Britain’s oldest active car manufacturer—unveiled a remarkable fusion of old-world charm and modern technology with the AC Ace Classic Electric. This electrified sports car, crafted in partnership with TREMEC Electric GT, marks a major milestone for a brand synonymous with heritage and performance.
By combining classic design with advanced electric technology, AC Cars has brought a new chapter to the roadster’s history, paying homage to its origins while racing into the future.
Blending Classic Design with Modern Power
From the open-grille style reminiscent of 1950s roadsters to the “smiling face” grille of the 1953 model, the AC Ace Classic Electric doesn’t merely echo the past—it resurrects it in high definition.
Every inch of this vehicle, from the hand-laid carbon fiber body to the sculpted wheel arches, reflects AC’s commitment to classic elegance. This isn’t just an update; it’s a revival of the timeless sports car, with an electric twist that maintains the spirit of its iconic predecessors.
Powering this classic-styled roadster is a state-of-the-art TREMEC Electric GT powertrain, delivering an impressive 300 bhp and 500Nm of torque. The car rockets from 0-62 mph in just 4.9 seconds, showcasing electric power without losing the authentic feel of a roadster.
In short, the Ace Classic Electric is as thrilling to drive as it is to admire, capturing that unmistakable joy of open-air cruising with the added punch of an electric motor.
Engineered for the Purists
True to its heritage, the AC Ace Classic Electric prioritizes a driving experience that resonates with sports car purists. AC Cars and TREMEC worked closely to achieve a 50/50 weight distribution, ensuring that this EV handles with precision and stability.
With its lightweight frame of just over 2,500 pounds, the Ace retains the agility that defined its gas-powered ancestors. The combination of balanced weight and low curb weight means this car doesn’t just perform well on straight roads; it’s built to master winding tracks and backroads with finesse.
Built for a Select Few
As a tribute to its exclusivity, only 49 units of the AC Ace Classic Electric will be produced, each marked with its unique chassis number. This limited availability, coupled with a starting price of $275,000, underlines the car’s status as a collector’s item.
Reserved spots filled quickly at SEMA, with additional reservations available through AC Cars’ official website for those eager to own a piece of automotive history reinvented for the future.
For the enthusiasts who land one of these rare vehicles, AC Cars offers a bespoke experience. Each Ace Classic Electric can be customized to match personal tastes, from paint options in classic red, white, or blue to hand-finished interior trims that elevate the car’s exclusivity. This level of customization ensures that every car is as unique as the owner who drives it.
A Nod to AC Cars’ Historic Legacy
The significance of AC Cars in automotive history can’t be overstated. From the original AC Ace that famously laid the foundation for the Shelby Cobra to their groundbreaking Brooklands record-breaking models, AC has defined British sports car culture for over a century.
The launch of the Ace Classic Electric marks not only the brand’s embrace of modern EV technology but also its commitment to keeping its legacy alive for future generations. As Chairman Alan Lubinsky said at SEMA, this car is a “milestone” in AC’s 123-year journey.
Power Meets Sustainability
At the core of the AC Ace Classic Electric’s appeal is its sustainable powertrain—a 72 kWh battery that promises over 200 miles of range, even under spirited driving conditions. DC fast charging ensures that this car isn’t just eco-friendly but practical for regular use, allowing drivers to get back on the road swiftly.
The innovative TREMEC eGT413 Modular EV system integrates seamlessly, making this lightweight electric roadster a game-changer in an EV market often dominated by larger, heavier models.
Unlike many modern EVs, the Ace Classic Electric doesn’t lose sight of its origins. It’s a nod to the traditional sports car with a sleek, minimalist cockpit and straightforward, driver-focused controls.
AC Cars has ensured that the Ace stays true to the essence of a roadster—a car that’s meant to be driven, not operated like a high-tech gadget.
A Future Shaped by Innovation
With only 49 units available and set to deliver in 2025, the AC Ace Classic Electric is poised to be more than a collector’s item. It’s a harbinger of the brand’s future, signaling AC’s intention to continue innovating while staying true to its roots.
The collaboration with TREMEC represents a commitment to blending history with technology, crafting EVs that respect their heritage while offering the performance and efficiency expected in today’s market.
AC Cars is embracing a sustainable future without abandoning the classic sports car ethos that defined its legacy. The Ace Classic Electric is more than a car; it’s a statement, a rare blend of art, engineering, and history that’s been reimagined for the environmentally-conscious driver.
For enthusiasts and collectors alike, it’s a unique opportunity to own not only an electric vehicle but a piece of the past, revitalized for a cleaner, greener road ahead.
Charge Complete: A Bold Evolution
In its 123rd year, AC Cars has proven that electric doesn’t mean leaving the past behind. The AC Ace Classic Electric embodies the thrill of driving a classic sports car while leading the way into a more sustainable future.
With its heritage-laden design, cutting-edge powertrain, and limited-edition allure, the Ace Classic Electric redefines what it means to be a true roadster in the 21st century. As one of the lucky few behind the wheel, you’re not just driving a car—you’re part of a legacy that’s ready to embrace the future, one electrifying mile at a time.
