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Abstract: In this paper we consider the model-reference adaptive control of a variable reluctance motor (VRM) for low-speed, high-torque operation. We use spline functions to model the VRM characteristic relating electric torque to rotor angular position and winding current. This model leads to a simple, computationally efficient, adaptive controller. We also incorporate ``torque sharing functions'' to smooth the electronic commutation between windings and to increase the peak torque available in the closed-loop (compared with ``hard'' commutation). We provide simulation results for a three-phase VRM that illustrate the design and performance of the adaptive controller.