Which motor is ideal for Electric Vehicles?

The key difference between a conventional vehicle and an electric one is that the former operates using an engine where internal combustion happens. Whereas an EV runs with the help of an electric motor. Since the EV only rests on its motor, the chance of breaking any mechanical parts is extremely low i.e., it has a lower cost of replacement. Electric cars don’t possess engines, so there is no requirement for fuel. So, it is significant to choose the best motors.

What are the Types of motors?

AC motors

AC motor works upon the principle of magnetism. The AC motor has a set of wires and 2 magnets placed on both sides of the wires. When electricity passes through these wires it creates a magnetic field. Because of this effect, the coils in the shaft begin rotating and therefore the vehicle starts moving. Ac motors are designed for running smoothly even on uneven terrains. These are generally preferred for high-performing vehicles, owing to their regenerative function acting as generators to supply power to the battery of an EV.

Types of AC motors

Synchronous motor

Synchronous motor runs at synchronic speed without depending on the load of the vehicle. This has 2 parts Rotor, a movable part, and a Stator which immovable. The synchronous motor also generates a magnetic field by the stator. It employs the magnetic interlocking principle. It is costlier than an induction motor with the same input and output owing to the leading and lagging power factor. This motor is additionally divided into Non-excited and Direct current excited motors.

Induction motor

Induction motors are a lucrative option out of all the motors and have a self-starting motor. The construction of this is simple so that the controls are also easy to use. It doesn’t require high maintenance. The speed of this motor is inversely proportional to the weight i.e. If the weight surges the speed reduces.

Types of DC Motors

DC motors have high torque suitable for heavy-loaded vehicles. This was earlier used for tractors for a stable pulling of loads. We can control the speed of the vehicle even when there is an abrupt surge in speed. Since it has numerous commutators and brushes the upkeep of DC series motors is high. The motors used in e- trains are the DC brushed motors.

Brushless DC Motors

It varies from the DC motors as it has permanent magnets. It doesn’t possess brushes or commutator patterns. Brushless DC Motors has better specifications such as >95% efficiency and high torque and little maintenance since the commutation is done electrically. Because of its traction volumes, it is vastly used in EVs.

Types of BLDC motors

Outrunner & Inrunner

In the Outrunner motor, the stator is inside and the motor is p outside. This motor has an internal gear system that is engrained inside the motor. This makes it compact and saves space. Since the mounting of the motor is limited to some limit it doesn’t give considerable power to the vehicle. So, it is generally used in lighter vehicles such as electric cycles, etc.

In the Inrunner motor, the motor is inside and the stator is outside as in traditional motors. Because of this outrunner structure and transmission system are needed outside for generating power. This makes the motor seem bulkier than Outrunner. This is best for three-wheelers and scooters.

With the increased demand for electric vehicles, the demand for electric motors will greatly increase and will reach a value of above $195 billion by 2030.