This paper proposes a novel current-sensorless maximum torque per ampere control for a surface mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor with low-resolution position sensor. A direct axis current is estimated from the mathematical model of the permanent magnet synchronous motor and the phase angle between direct and quadrature axis voltage commands is controlled to adjust the estimated direct axis current to zero, thus a maximum torque per ampere control can be achieved. The proposed method is suitable for low cost applications with slow dynamic response characteristics.