AC Propulsion: Examining The Electric Vehicle Industry Mary Beard Cindy Chen Philip Wong

Electric Vehicles in the Automotive Industry EVs leader in automotive industry prior to 1912 Interest in EVs fluctuates with oil prices Recent concerns over smog and other pollutants drives EV research

Classifications of Electric Vehicles Performance categories Bikes and Scooters Bikes and Scooters Neighborhood (25 mph) Neighborhood (25 mph) City (55 mph) City (55 mph) Full-function Full-function Power Sources Fuel cell Fuel cell Hybrid Hybrid Battery (lead acid, lithium ion, nickel metal hydride) Battery (lead acid, lithium ion, nickel metal hydride)

AC Propulsion Performance categories Bikes and Scooters Bikes and Scooters Neighborhood (25 mph) Neighborhood (25 mph) City (55 mph) City (55 mph) Full-function Full-function Power Sources Fuel cell Fuel cell Hybrid Hybrid Battery (lead acid, lithium ion, nickel metal hydride) Battery (lead acid, lithium ion, nickel metal hydride)

History of AC Propulsion Founded in 1992 by Alan Cocconi CIT graduate CIT graduate Developed drive system for GM’s Impact (EV-1) Developed drive system for GM’s Impact (EV-1) 1994 AC-150 Drive System Honda Civic conversion vehicle

AC Propulsion Projects Government research Non-profit research Vehicle conversions for Southern California Edison & South Coast Air Quality Management District T-Zero

T-Zero AC Propulsion’s full-function EV 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds Max speed 90 mph $120,000

Observations and Recommendations Size of company and impact Development of Market Position of AC Propulsion as a technological company Revenue Problems Outsourcing

Operating as a Small Company Retaining technical edge and direction Reliance on individual members Inefficiencies Narrow-mindedness

Viewing the Future of the EV Market Market history shows difficulties Undeveloped market Growth of EV market is flat at best Will EV market blossom? Penetrating new markets

AC Propulsion’s Technology T-Zero project shows strentghs of company Ability to respond quickly to market demands Taking on new projects Miscellaneous projects

Revenue Problems Moving forward with current R&D AC Propulsion’s position of being cash strapped Company culture Company view of investors and borrowing money

Recommendations Consulting or outside assessments of company More aggressive marketing Hiring new person to aid Tom Penetrating new markets Bringing in more revenue Re-assessing company view of investors Borrowing money Reevaluating company culture of revenue Outsourcing