Feature | ACE EV
Enter the Transformers ACE EV’s radical technology enters a new phase Transformers were once toys but now they will become a reality thanks to an Australian company that refers to itself more as an energy and software company than an outright car maker – ACE EV. “We are a focused energy and software company with a Mobile Energy Management System (MEMS) that delivers new ways for energy and transport to work together,” ACE EV MD Mr McGarvie said. “Our focus is to produce something that’s inexpensive and provides new revolutionary manufacturing flexibility.” On 15 September 2021 ACE launched its first Transformer the V1 which is a modular platform with seven permutations. The launch was facilitated by the SAE-A and moderated by Sam Laggozzino in what is today’s format de jour – the Zoom webinar. On hand were Greg McGarvie managing director of ACE EV and Adam Schultz team lead for the project. The V1 Transformer is the fourth iteration of the vehicle and according to Mr McGarvie it is by no means the final version as he expects changes before it goes into production. The V1 Transformer will be operational ready for a trial next year. 22 | September 2021
It is aimed squarely at major fleets around the world as an integrated energy, transport and communications system with architecture that offers interchangeable modules in long and short wheelbase with a high or low roof, or as a van or ute. These modules can be changed in just 15 minutes. For busy freight companies the V1 enables them to fit a pre-packed module straight onto its electric platform and be on the road in 15 minutes. One platform can carry whatever cargo module is required – be it van or ute, high or low roof – so it is constantly earning its keep, whatever each individual freight mission may be. One of the outstanding things about this vehicle is that it isn’t just another electric vehicle it is also a portable source of energy, one that can take from the grid but also give back, likewise it can be used as a battery to power other objects. As an example, it can be used as an emergency vehicle that can attend a site and enable lights or equipment to be powered from it. Or if you find yourself at home in a blackout, the vehicle can power a house for up to three days, or if you’re a tradie you can power electric tools from the vehicle.
