When individuals envision automobiles, the image of an engine nestled beneath the hood often comes to mind. However, in the realm of electric vehicles (EVs), the more appropriate term is “motor.” This distinction transcends mere terminology; it encapsulates the fundamental mechanics of EVs.

Motor vs. Engine: What’s the Distinction?

Engine: An engine transforms chemical energy into mechanical energy through a combustion process, generating heat and pressure that produce a driving force. Various fuels, including gasoline, diesel, and hydrogen, can facilitate this combustion.

Motor: In contrast, a motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. The primary energy source for motors is electricity, derived from batteries or generators. Unlike engines that rely on combustion for power generation, motors leverage magnetic fields to initiate rotor movement. In many respects, electric motors in vehicles bear resemblance to those found in ceiling fans and washing machines.

In essence, engines combust fuel, whereas motors utilize electricity.

  How EV Motors Operate

  1. Electricity flows from the battery to the motor.
  2. The motor harnesses magnetic fields to generate rotation.
  3. This rotation propels the wheels directly eliminating the necessity for gears, pistons, or exhaust systems.

The outcome? A seamless delivery of instant torque and a whisper-quiet operation. 

The mechanics of an electric motor are comparatively straightforward, comprising significantly fewer moving parts. It consists of two principal components: a stator (the fixed element) and a rotor (the moving component). 

When electricity is channeled to the stator coils, a rotating electromagnetic field is established, inducing a pulling force on the rotor’s magnets, thereby causing it to spin. This rotational motion facilitates movement to the final drive, with motor speed modulated by the current supplied.

Electric motors confer a distinct advantage over internal combustion engines (ICE). The reduced number of moving parts translates to enhanced efficiency. Indeed, an electric motor can convert approximately 90% of the electrical energy it receives into mechanical energy. In contrast, modern combustion engines achieve a maximum efficiency ranging from 25% to 35%. This disparity arises because ICEs squander a significant portion of their chemical energy as heat and through friction among moving components. 

Notably, most contemporary EVs are equipped with regenerative braking systems, which recapture kinetic energy during braking and convert it back into electrical energy to recharge the battery, further augmenting the efficiency of electric motors.

 Why Motors Are Superior

Efficiency: EV motors convert over 85–90% of energy into motion, compared to approximately 30% in combustion engines.

Instant Power: Motors provide instantaneous torque, enabling rapid acceleration in EVs.

Low Maintenance: With a reduced number of moving parts (eliminating the need for oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems), motors are simpler and more economical to maintain.

Cleaner & Quieter: Motors do not combust fuel, resulting in no tailpipe emissions and significantly diminished noise pollution.

Why This Matters for the Future

The utilization of motors instead of engines signifies more than just a technical nuance—it represents a transformative shift in transportation paradigms. 

EVs embody a cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable approach to the movement of people and goods.

At the core of this evolution lies the motor, adeptly converting electricity into motion and propelling the future of mobility. 

At SAGLEV, we remain steadfast in our commitment to expedite this transition by providing advanced electric mobility solutions that enhance the driving experience for all.