An apparatus for converting electrical energy into mechanical energy includes a plurality of iron segments disposed in a circular, generally donut-shaped body that is substantially non-magnetic, and which forms a rotor of an electric motor. Each of a first plurality of coils is attached to a housing and form a stator. Each coil includes a hollow center and is disposed around the body. The coils are pulsed on and off in a pattern to create a magnetic field that attracts the iron segments urging them sufficient to rotate the body. The body forms a rotor of the electric motor. A second plurality of coils are optionally included and energized in an opposite or offset pattern as compared to the first plurality to increase torque or aid in starting rotation of the rotor. A permanent magnet in the rotor is used to indicate the position of the rotor relative to the stator. The rotor includes a pair of horseshoe-shaped overlapping halves that fasten together. A method of energizing each coil for a preferred duration of time regardless of the speed of the rotor or position of the coil on the housing is described.