Why Don’t Electric Cars Have Transmission & Gearboxes?

The buzz about electric cars is gaining massive momentum and is not going away anytime soon. Most electric vehicles have a single-gear ratio.

One of the glaring differences between traditional vehicles and electric cars is the drivetrain. An electric car has a single-speed transmission, while an internal combustion vehicle possesses a multi-speed gearbox with several ratios. 

ICE engines cannot produce sufficient torque at idle to move the vehicle; there is a need to have higher revs to produce more torque. Electric cars do away with gearboxes. Why is this so?

Well, we answer that question in this article.

Do Electric Cars Need a Transmission?

You might have come across this question a million times. The truth is that a modern electric car does not need a transmission. However, it still needs the input of a transmission.

The electric car is constructed as a large single alternating-current motor connected to a single-speed gear reduction and differential.

The AC motors can be utilized for the control to spin in the opposite direction so that reverse gear can work without a transmission.

How Do Electric Motors Function Without a Gearbox?

The responsibility of the gearboxes is to ensure the transfer of the motor power to the wheels and reduce this force to attain more torque and less speed. 

When you compare electric cars to other vehicles with combustion engines, you will notice that the ones with combustion engines have a low torque in the lower speed range.

The lack of a gearbox will lead to inadequate power transmission for ascents, starting, and speeding. Gearboxes are utilized in traction applications with combustion drives, and it helps in attaining the best possible efficiency in the optimum speed range.

Another function of the gearbox is to ensure the connection of the motor with the drivetrain. It also helps adapt the torque to the specific load situation. This will make sure that the motor power is efficient.

One striking difference between the electric motor and the combustion engine is that the electric motor possesses a full torque that is available when the vehicle starts, and it is almost autonomously of the speed.

Are There Any Electric Cars With Gears?

There are some electric cars with manual transmission gears. Almost all electric vehicles have a single-speed transmission. It means that you do not have to switch through the gears to achieve high speeding levels.

The reason is that electric motors have a much higher rev range, and the electric motor has the power to rev up to 20,000 rpm under normal circumstances. On the other hand, an ICE will go up about 6,000-7,000 rpm.

For example, Porsche Taycan and the Original Tesla Roadster are among the electric cars with two-speed gearboxes. You can find more details about electric vehicles with gears here. 

Related: Do Teslas Come With Manual Gears? (Explained)

Why Do Some Electric Cars Have 2 Gears?

Including a second gear offers electric cars the opportunity to attain higher speed levels and acceleration than cars with a single-speed transmission.

These electric cars sit in the first gear for low-speed acceleration, enabling them to start quicker. 

Are There Gears in a Tesla?

It is important to note that Tesla, as a pioneer of the electric-powered car brands, makes concerted efforts to lead the pack by driving their car performance to be top-notch.

Most Tesla vehicles operate on a single-gear system, which is a fantastic feature. On the other hand, gasoline-powered cars are meant to run on a three to seven-gear transmission system, while Tesla cars can move with a single gear.

Most electric cars have a single-gear mechanism, which does not hurt their performance. Tesla’s single gear system makes it easier for individuals of all ages.

Related: How Does Hot Weather Affect Electric Cars? (Explained)

Can You Push a Dead Electric Car in Neutral?

It is possible to push your electric car and have your vehicle towed when it runs out of charge. You need to put the car in a neutral setting once the battery is dead.

It is essential to avoid pushing the car if your electric car does not come with a neutral setting. When these electric vehicles are depowered, they have little resistance and can be moved easily.

The electric vehicle can almost be towed or pushed without a neutral position, apart from the safety features and parking brake. The neutral in an electric car acts like a brake release and a kill switch to the wheels and motor.

Engaging the neutral button or lever in an electric car will modestly free up any remaining restraints between the wheels and the engine.

Related: Do Teslas Have Turbo? Here’s How It Works (for Electric Cars)

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