Do Electric Cars Have Transmissions?

One of the additional perks of an electric vehicle is the overall reduced maintenance as there are fewer moving parts to worry about. But what about the transmission? Do electric models have them? They do, but there’s a pretty good chance that it won’t be like the ones you’re used to in other cars. Learn a bit more about electric car transmission below with Hendrick Chevrolet Monroe, so you’ll know what to maintain in the future when you visit our service center!

How Many Gears Are on Electric Cars?

Electric cars have a transmission that’s different from those found in other vehicles due to the fact that an electric motor can produce near-instantaneous torque, unlike an internal combustion engine. With the near-instantaneous torque, there’s no need to “rev” the engine on your Matthews drives. Because of this, most electric models have a single-speed transmission, where you’ll be able to use all of the power in your car as soon as you step on the accelerator. See how the electric vehicle powertrain works here: 

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, 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 any moving part of a vehicle, the electric car transmission is no exception. You’ll need to confirm that electric car transmission service is required depending on your model though, so be sure to check your owner’s manual! For example, some models have transmission fluid that will need to be exchanged during recommended intervals. Your owner’s manual will have all the correct maintenance details for your electric ride in Weddington. If you have any questions, feel free to ask us at Hendrick Chevrolet Monroe!

Discover the Electric Chevrolet Lineup at Hendrick Chevrolet Monroe!

From the compact Bolt EV and EUV to the upcoming electric version of the Silverado legend itself, the Chevrolet lineup has a solid electric selection for you near Waxhaw. Learn more today and our team can also show you how to prepare your home for one of these exciting models!