by Types of Electric Motors Used in EVs
Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSM) – PMSMs use permanent magnets embedded in the rotor to generate a magnetic field. They are efficient, compact and produce high torque at low RPMs, making them well-suited for EVs. Tesla vehicles predominantly use PMSMs to power the front and rear wheels.
Induction Motors – An induction motor creates a magnetic field in its rotor using electromagnetic induction. They are rugged, low maintenance and cheaper than PMSMs. Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt use induction motors.
Brushed DC Motors – In simpler EVs, brushed direct current Electric Motors For Electric Vehicles are used due to their low cost. However, they are less efficient and require more maintenance due to brush and commutator wear.
Brushless DC Motors (BLDC) – A brushless DC motor has an external controller to commutate current in stator windings instead of using mechanical brushes. BLDCs are more efficient than brushed DC motors. They are commonly used in smaller EVs and for functions like power steering and air conditioning.
Switched Reluctance Motors – They have a simple rotor and stator design without magnets but are less efficient. Daimler employs switched reluctance motors in some of itsvehicles.
Advantages of Different Types of Motors
Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors
– Higher power and torque density than other motors, allowing them to be smaller
– Superior efficiency, up to 97% efficient
– Smooth torque delivery for maximum performance and passenger comfort
Induction Motors
– More robust construction than PMSMs without rare earth magnets
– Mature technology with well-established manufacturing networks, keeping costs low
– Require less maintenance as they have no brushes or sensors
Brushless DC Motors
– More efficient than brushed DC motors due to lack of brushes
– Can precisely control rotational speed and position with an integrated controller
– Well-suited for ancillary applications requiring versatility
The Drive Mechanism
In EVs, the electric motor generates torque through electromagnetic induction when current is applied to windings in the stator. This rotates the permanent magnet rotor inside to spin axles or wheels.
Single Motor Drive – Most small urban EVs use a single electric motor mounted over the rear or front axle. For example, Nissan Leaf and Renault Zoe employ a single rear-mounted motor.
Dual Motor Drive – Longer-range premium EVs have dual-motors, one for each axle, allowing for torque vectoring. Tesla Model S, X and Porsche Taycan use this setup for optimum performance.
Hub Motors – Place motors directly inside the wheels to eliminate the need for gearboxes, drive shafts and differentials. Concept cars have experimented with this more complex design.
Factors Impacting Motor Performance
Vehicle Weight – Heavier EVs require higher-torque motors to maintain acceleration and hill climbing ability. Motability electric vehicles may employ smaller motors.
Driving Range – Longer driving ranges need power-dense, high-efficiency motors to maximize energy from large battery packs. Short-haul EVs use less efficient motors.
Top Speed – High-performance EVs meant for speed require high-revving, torque-rich permanent magnet motors. Others may use less powerful induction motors.
Driving Dynamics – Premium performance brands install dual-motors and advanced torque-vectoring systems for precise cornering abilities. Basic models remain rear-wheel drive.
Production Constraints – Supply issues with rare-earth magnets encourage automakers to also develop induction or reluctance motor derivatives. Cost is also a consideration.
Motor Design Developments
Automakers recognize opportunities to boost EV efficiency and driving range through motor optimization. Current research focuses on:
– New high-energy magnet materials like neodymium and samarium to boost power density while reducing size and weight.
– Integrated drive modules that combine the motor, gearing and inverter in one compact, easily packaged unit.
– Thermal management strategies to cool motors during intense acceleration without compromising power or durability.
– Demagnetization-resistant magnet designs to preserve motor efficiency over many charge cycles.
– Advanced simulation and modeling tools to finely tune motor performance characteristics during development.
– Manufacturing automation using robotics to lower production costs of complex motor components.
With expected EV growth, electric motor innovation will remain a focal area as automakers compete to outperform rivals on performance, efficiency and affordability. Future motors may charge wirelessly from roadway coils or even recover kinetic energy from overrun.
Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
