The electromagnetic energy conversion process of a composite dual-winding asynchronous reluctance machine is presented. The mechanism of torque production is explained using the magnetic fields distributions. The dynamic model developed in dq-rotor reference frame from first principles depicts the machine operation and response to sudden load change. The device is self-starting in the absence of rotor conductors and its starting current is lower than that of a conventional induction machine. Although the machine possesses salient pole rotors, it is clearly shown that its performance is that of an induction motor operating at half the synchronous speed. Hence the device produces synchronous torque while operating asynchronously. Simple tests were conducted on a prototype demonstration machine and the results obtained are seen to be in tune with the theory and the steady-state calculations. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.