tzero Technology for Electric Vehicles
High Performance Electric Vehicle Drive Systems
Among scientists and engineers, the lower-case t denotes time. The symbol t0, pronouced t-zero, designates the beginning. So it was in 1996 that AC Propulsion's tzero™ sports car signified a beginning, the start of a new era in the way people think about, buy, and use their cars.
In appearance, the tzero was insistent, demanding attention. But in operation it was quiet, almost demure. Given free rein, tzero's 220 horsepower could accelerate its light, efficient structure at a startling, almost terrifying rate. Yet it behaved calmly, even serenely when traffic was slow or erratic. Responsive and smooth, the tzero wanted to be driven, and it could be, without burning a drop of gasoline. The tzero was electric.
Now, AC Propulsion produces its unique tzero™ propulsion technology for other electric cars. The AC induction motor produces up to 220 horsepower but weighs only 110 pounds. It provides all of the tractive effort, and most of the braking, too. Highly effective regenerative braking recaptures kinetic energy from deceleration, returning it to the battery for later use. The integrated power electronics unit adds only 70 pounds, and it includes a powerful battery charger that can restore 60 miles of driving range in as little as one hour. For the battery, tzero™ technology provides battery management systems for Lithium batteries that manage voltage and temperature during driving and charging for reliable, safe operation and long battery life.
Our electric drive systems with tzero™ technology transform daily driving with immediate and seamless performance that leaves traffic (and the petroleum age!) behind. As it moves its occupants from point A to point B, tzero™ technology transports them into a new era.