Do Electric Cars Have Transmissions?

As gas prices increase, more and more Atlanta drivers are purchasing electric cars. If you’d like to eliminate paying for gas or want to contribute to a greener environment, an electric vehicle (EV) is a great way to do so! While there are several benefits to EVs, there are some things you should consider before investing in one. Many of our Lawrenceville customers often ask “Do electric cars have transmissions?”. The simple answer is yes! It’s true that there are less moving parts in an electric car than a traditional gas-powered vehicle, but they still have a transmission. Get more information about electric car transmissions with BMW of Gwinnett Place! If your EV is in need of work, schedule an appointment and we’ll make sure you’re back on Suwanee roads as soon as possible. 

Are There Gears On Electric Cars?

EVs have a transmission but they are different from those found in traditional gas powered vehicles. Since electric cars can produce almost instantaneous torque, there is no need to “rev” the engine as you would in a standard vehicle. So what does this have to do with gears on electric cars? Because it takes minimal time to produce torque, most electric vehicles have a single-speed transmission to allow the driver to use up all the power in their vehicle as soon as they step on the accelerator. To help give you an idea of what we’re talking about we explained how the powertrain of an EV works: 

1. When you press on the accelerator, electricity is sent from the battery to the electric motor.
2. As the electric motor spins, it also spins the gearbox. When drivers talk about the transmission in an electric vehicle, they are usually referring to the gearbox. 
3. As the electric motor and gearbox spin, your EV will begin to move. Some electric motors can rotate up to 20,000 rpm. By contrast, most internal combustion engines on a vehicle only rotate up to 7,000 rpm.
4. When you put your electric vehicle into reverse, the electric motor essentially spins backward, unlike in a standard vehicle where there’s a separate gear in the transmission so that you move in reverse.

Do You Have To Maintain Electric Car Transmissions?

Like a standard vehicle, maintenance is extremely important. Even though there are less moving parts, it’s still important to take care of the parts you do have in your EV. You won’t have to worry about oil changes since an electric motor doesn’t require it, but you will have to get your transmission fluid changed every now and then. For more information on what needs to be serviced regularly, reach out to our service department. 

Discover Electric Vehicles at BMW of Gwinnett Place Today!

Are you interested in purchasing an electric vehicle? Apply for financing online to speed up your purchasing process. Our team will make sure you get answers to all of your questions so you can enjoy driving on Duluth roads!