Do Electric Cars Have Transmissions?
Most EVs do not have multi-speed transmissions. Instead, they use a single-speed transmission to manage the electric motor.
Published On: August 2, 2023
In traditional internal combustion vehicles, multi-speed transmissions transfer power from the engine to the wheels through a series of complex gears. Because combustion engines generate efficient power only within specific ranges of revolutions per minute (RPM), gear shifts are necessary to make sure the wheels receive the right amount of energy as the engine spins at different RPM. An automatic transmission will detect changes in engine speed and shifts gears as needed, allowing the vehicle to distribute the appropriate energy to the wheels.
However, the advent of electric vehicles has simplified this process significantly. In comparison to internal combustion engines, which must build up torque over time, EVs instantaneously produce a constant amount of torque through a wide range of RPM. The electric motor is able to distribute power to the wheels directly, eliminating the need for multi-speed transmissions and accompanying gear shifts. This results in a smoother and more effortless driving experience, typically with less need for transmission maintenance and repair.
It’s worth noting that not all electrified vehicle transmissions are the same. For instance, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) use a combination of an electric motor and combustion engine and require a more traditional transmission to coordinate power delivery from both the motor and engine to the wheels. An example of this is the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV, which has an 8-speed automatic transmission that works to ensure power from the gasoline engine and electric motor is delivered efficiently to the wheels. Let’s explore the nuances in EV transmissions and how they impact the driving experience.
Types of EV Transmissions
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Most battery electric vehicles (BEVs) on the market use a single-speed transmission. These work by directly distributing the motor's output speed and torque to the vehicle's wheels. When a driver presses the accelerator, electric power is immediately sent from the vehicle’s battery to the motor. The transmission simply regulates how much of that power is ultimately sent to the wheels, moving the vehicle forward or backward, depending on whether the transmission is set to Drive or Reverse.
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Continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) are commonly found in conventional hybrids and occasionally in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Hybrid cars use this system in conjunction with the electric motor. The electric motor can support the gasoline engine during acceleration or function autonomously at low speeds. At the same time, the CVT modifies the gear ratio to deliver the precise amount of torque needed.
Do electric vehicle transmissions have gears?
Unlike gas-powered cars that require multi-speed transmissions or CVTs to transfer constantly varying amounts of engine power to the wheels, most electric vehicles can send a consistent stream of smooth electric power to the wheels. However, some automakers are experimenting with two-gear transmissions to elevate the driving experience. These gearboxes have the potential to enhance the performance of electric cars in the near future by optimizing the motor's power output for specific driving scenarios, such as high-speed cruising, quick acceleration, or efficient low-speed driving.
The future of electric car transmissions
The future of electric car transmissions looks promising as manufacturers continue to explore new technologies to improve efficiency, performance, and driver experience.
As EVs and HEVs become more commonplace, manufacturers are exploring new technologies to improve accessibility, efficiency, and performance. One emerging trend is the use of advanced technologies to optimize the motor's power output and improve overall efficiency. For example, some electric cars now feature in-wheel motors, eliminating the need for a traditional transmission altogether. These motors are mounted directly into the wheels, enabling precise power delivery and improving handling, traction, and efficiency.
As the EV market continues to expand and mature, we can anticipate ongoing innovation and progress in this field. Manufacturers will continue to experiment with more diverse solutions, each tailored to meet the different needs of a wide range of drivers. The future of electric vehicles looks promising, and we can expect to see significant developments in the years to come.
Learn about the Mazda CX-90 & CX-70 PHEV, with their 8-Speed transmission and hybrid electric powertrain
Embrace the future of innovative and more sustainable driving with the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV—an intuitive Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle that features a transmission designed to optimize performance and efficiency.
Mazda’s latest line of electrified vehicles represent an exciting step forward in the evolution of hybrid technology and a promising glimpse into the future of automotive engineering. Visit us online or at your local Mazda Dealer today to learn more about the benefits of owning the CX-90 PHEV and the CX-70 PHEV, and navigate this new world of motion with confidence.
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