What is an electric motor in an EV?

An electric car motor is a crucial component in electric vehicles (EVs) which converts electricity stored in the vehicle’s battery into energy which powers the wheels.

How do electric motors work?

The motor receives electrical energy from the EV’s battery. This energy is usually in the form of direct current (DC) in battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Using electromagnetic fields, the electric motor converts this electrical energy into mechanical energy. When electric current flows through the motor, it creates a magnetic field that interacts with the permanent magnets or other windings, causing the rotor (the rotating part of the motor) to spin. The rotating rotor is connected to the vehicle’s drivetrain, which transmits the rotational energy to the wheels, propelling the car forward.