Do Electric Cars Have Transmissions?

There’s always something new to learn in the world of automobiles, and electric cars are particularly interesting for their unique designs and electronics. One common question asked is, do electric cars have transmissions?

Yes, electric cars have transmissions. However, unlike conventional gasoline powered vehicles, EV’s utilize a single-speed transmission to transfer the energy generated from the battery to the wheels. Within the single-speed transmission includes perfectly matched gears ratios to maximize efficiency of the electric motor without the need to switch through gears.

In fact, the single-speed transmission of an electric car acts as the regulating factor for their electric motor. Unlike traditional vehicles with multi-gear transmissions, this simpler drive train allows EVs to precisely regulate and optimize power from its motor.

And when it comes to electric cars, the transmission plays a major role in delivering a smooth ride. Making an EV a perfect option for those with long commutes.

A single-speed transmission offers superior optimizing power with every turn of the wheels.

This means that every corner you take and every acceleration you activate is effortless and only requires minimal amount of effort to get the most out of your car.

Truth be told, that’s what makes electric cars really stand out. Their power can quickly adjust depending on whatever terrain you are on.

Nearly everything about an EV is a rethinking of the traditional automobile model, and the transmission is certainly not an exception.

Let’s dive into the details and uncover everything you need to know about electric vehicle transmissions.

What’s Different about an EV Transmission?

When getting into an electric car, you might be surprised to discover that there’s no gear stick next to the driver’s seat as you’d expect in a gas-powered vehicle.

That’s largely because the electric motors of an EV can produce consistent torque suitable for a wide range of RPMs. Thus, no need for multiple gear transmissions.

By contrast however, internal combustion vehicles (ICE) need multiple gear ratios. This means a more complex gearbox is required to facilitate the right torque ratio for different RPMs.

In general, ICE cars perform between 3000 and 6000 RPM. Electric cars can operate on a larger bandwidth of 15,000 RPM.

Due to the different motor design, EV transmissions are almost always single-speed. It’s the major factor the driving experience is so pleasant and calming.

Why Is an Electric Car Transmission So Different?

By and large, the difference in transmission designs between EVs and ICE vehicles is down to the motor. ICE vehicles provide rotational force through explosive force, moving the pistons, rotating the crankshaft, and connecting to the transmission.

In contrast, thanks to the wide bandwidth of RPM at which an EV can operate, they only need a single gear to transfer power to the drive wheels form the motor over the speed range.

In addition, electric car manufacturers generally choose a single-speed transmission because a bigger, more complex one will add weight, cost, and difficulty of maintenance.

Do Any Electric Cars Have Multiple Speed Transmissions?

Yes, the Porsche Taycan is the first production electric vehicle to use a two-speed transmission. Porsche claims it’s two-speed transmission improves the EV’s range by 5 percent!

Do EVs Need Transmission Fluid Service?

Yes, transmission fluid changes are a required part of maintaining an electric car.

In fact, transmission fluid is incredibly important for your EV. By servicing the fluid, it ensures that the gears of your transmission move efficiently and are well preserved.

Final Thoughts: Do Electric Cars Have Transmissions

So do electric cars have transmissions? The short answer is yes, but the transmission design is generally a lot simpler.

An EV motor has a much wider bandwidth of RPM and can achieve peak torque readily. Thus, allowing them to operate safely up to 20,000 RPM, only necessitating a small single-speed transmission.

Own an Electric car? If so, what is your experience like with the single speed transmission? Tell us in the comments below.