SSC will be using its Ultimate Aero platform to showcase the technology but insists that the company is planning to produce its green technologies for a wide range of applications, including a wider range of vehicles. SSC's electric powertrain package, named AESP (All-Electric Scalable Powertrain) is unique due to its scalable horsepower, light weight, compact size, quick recharge time and liquid cooling.
The key differentiator to rival technologies is its scalability. SSC plans to use variations of the powertrain in SUV and commercial vehicle platforms, with power outputs expected to range from between 200hp (147kW) and 1,200hp (895kW) – the latter would be reserved for delivery trucks, heavy duty equipment, buses and military vehicles.
The advanced powertrain relies on SSC’s own nanotechnology rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which the company claims is rechargeable in only 10 minutes on a standard 110V outlet and has a 150-200 mile range on a single charge.
The AESP system features twin 3-Phase AC induction electric motors measuring just 13in in diameter and weighing in at just 200lbs (90kg). Despite their small size, the motors in the Ultimate Aero EV demonstration vehicle will churn out a combined 500hp (373kW) and 821lb-ft (1,114Nm) of torque.
If the technology proves successful, SSC will start selling the powertrain to major carmakers, governments, and other businesses. Initial pricing for mass-produced units are $5K-$6K per unit for 1,000 to 10,000 (with further reduction in unit cost for increased production.)
While some of the claims do sound ambitious, SSC has proven that it can achieve lofty goals if it sets out to. Last year we saw the company’s Ultimate Aero TT win the record for the world’s fastest car with a top speed run of 255.83mph (411.76km/h). The story doesn’t end there, as SSC is also gunning for the title of manufacturer of the world’s fastest electric car and plans to contend the challenge later this year.