A method and apparatus for improving the performance of polyphase AC machine is provided. The machines are excited with both a fundamental frequency and with an odd harmonic of the fundamental frequency so that a fundamental flux wave and an odd harmonic flux wave travel at a synchronized speed within the air-gap of the machine. The phase angle between the fundamental and odd harmonic excitation is controlled to increase the magnetic loading of one portion of the machine, while reducing the magnetic loading of the another portion of the machine. In this manner, redistribution of the flux densities is effected to more efficiently use the various components of the machine to increase torque.