Do Electric Cars Have Transmissions?

One of the many benefits of electric cars is reduced maintenance. For example, an electric car will not require oil changes because it doesn’t have as many moving parts as a vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine. Do electric cars have transmissions? Yes, an EV will come equipped with a transmission, however the transmission in an EV won’t be the same as that which is found in a conventional, gas-powered vehicle. Learn more about how an electric car transmission works in this guide from Motorwerks MINI. If you are interested in a new MINI Electric, visit our dealership in Golden Valley for a test drive today!

How Many Gears Are on Electric Cars?

Do electric cars have transmissions? As noted above, EVs are equipped with a transmission, but it is different from the transmission that’s found in standard vehicles. This is due to the fact that an electric motor can produce near-instantaneous torque, which means that there’s no need to “rev” the engine to reach peak power on St Louis Park-area roads. So, what about the gears on an electric car? Most EVs have a single-speed transmission, which will deliver full power as soon as you step on the accelerator. Here’s how the powertrain in an EV works:

1. When you step on the accelerator, electricity is sent from the battery to the electric motor.
2. As the motor spins, it also spins the gearbox. The gearbox is what most drivers refer to when they’re talking about the transmission in an electric vehicle.
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, whereas in a standard vehicle there’s a separate gear in the transmission for reverse.

Do You Have To Maintain Electric Car Transmissions?

The reduced maintenance of an EV is something that will appeal to drivers throughout the Minneapolis area. No internal combustion engine means no engine oil to worry about, however your electric car transmission will require regular maintenance service. Some EVs have transmission fluid that will need to be changed or refreshed during recommended intervals. Not all electric cars have transmission fluid though, so you should consult your owner’s manual for specifics on transmission maintenance. You can also count on the service experts at Motorwerks MINI to maintain your EV transmission in accordance with manufacturer guidelines.

Experience an Electric Vehicle Today at Motorwerks MINI!

If you’re ready to experience all that a new MINI Electric model has to offer, contact us to schedule a test drive near Minnetonka today! Our friendly and knowledgeable sales associates will be happy to fill you in on the features and specs of our electrified MINI Cooper models and let you know about any applicable Minnesota EV incentives. Meanwhile, explore our new vehicle specials and feel free to give us a call at (952) 213-5589 if you have any questions.