A stator assembly includes a stator having a plurality of teeth which are distributed around a circumference of the stator and point toward a central axis of the stator. The teeth alternately have a first cross-sectional profile and a second cross-sectional profile, and a plurality of slots being formed between the teeth. A plurality of coils are disposed around the teeth having the first cross-sectional profile. The second cross-sectional profile has a parallel-sided stem portion and an adjoining tapered head portion. A height of the stem portion of the second cross-sectional profile is less than a height of a respective one of the coils that is disposed around an adjacent one of the teeth having the first cross-sectional profile.