ACE EV launches X1 Transformer modular vehicles

Australian electric vehicle manufacturer ACE EV Group has launched its new X1 Transformer modular platform sporting a range of electric light commercial vehicles.

The Adelaide manufacturer, which had previously focused on a single small van model, launched a range of long and short wheelbase, high and low roof, van and ute options which can be accommodated with the X1’s modular architecture at an online event hosted by the Society of Automotive Engineers – Australasia (SAE-A).

ACE EV managing director Greg McGarvie said the X1 was aimed at major fleets around the world as an integrated energy, transport and communications system.

McGarvie said: “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.

“For busy freight companies with their major distribution centres, the X1 enables them to fit a pre-packed module straight onto its electric platform and be on its way in 15 minutes.

“One platform can carry whatever cargo module is required – so it is constantly earning its keep, whatever each individual freight mission may be.”

McGarvie told @AuManufacturing that a prototype ‘mule’ vehicle was being set up with the company’s energy management technology.

“First Transformers will be assembled in Q1/Q2 in 2022.”

This advanced V2G (vehicle-to-grid) technology is a key feature of the X1 Transformer platform and connects it via the cloud to telematics, software updates, emergency power and ACE’s pioneering Smart Energy Wallet.

McGarvie said ACE EV had won $5 million in Federal Government funding for an energy management trial to start early next year using the X1 Transformer as its test platform.

“Our Advanced Australian Vehicle To Grid (AAV2G) project will deliver bi-directional transfer between vehicle, building and grid with integrated on-board energy metering.

“The system will enable the X1 Transformer to power an entire home or business, with the vehicle battery storing energy from rooftop solar cells or from the grid.

“It can charge when the sun shines, provide night-time energy needs, supply emergency power when needed, feed back into the grid – and, of course, run the vehicle itself.

“We intend to have X1 Transformer trial vehicles on the road this November, with a view to beginning full-scale systems testing in April next year.”

Picture: ACE EV/LWB high-roof van

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