EVs are rapidly gaining popularity as a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional ICE vehicles. One of the important components that enable EVs to function is the electric motor.
Electric motors are critical for converting electrical energy into mechanical energy, and they are based on the principle of electromagnetism. The motor consists of a series of coils and magnets, which interact to produce a rotational motion. In this article we’ll discuss electric motors.
The major components of an EV are, the inverter, battery, charger, motor, and motor controller. The motor used in an EV is different from the regular ones because it needs to be mobile and capable of handling changing loads while it operates.
The motor runs on power from the battery, which helps move the EV and ensures it runs quietly and smoothly. As of now, there are three different types of electric motors and they are;
This is the most popular electric motor used in EVs. The Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor has many advantages like high-density power, great efficiency, and runs quietly without making much noise. The inside of the PMSM is tough, making it suitable for high-speed applications in EVs.
Companies such as Ather, Ampere Electric, MG, Tata are few among the many manufacturers who prefer using PMSM in their EV. Some top manufacturing companies of PMSM are ABB India Pvt. Ltd., Sumit Engineering Works, Narula Electricals, and Bonfiglioli.
BLDC motors are known for their good control and performance. They help reduce energy loss due to their high power density and efficiency. This results in improved driving range for various types of vehicles. The BLDC motor has two main parts, the rotor, and the stator.
BLDC motors can be seen in TVS, Hero Electric Vehicles, Bounce Infinity, Jitendra Electric Vehicle, and Komaki Electric. The top BLDC motor manufacturing companies are Spark Motors Pvt. Ltd, Rajamane Industries Pvt. Ltd, among others.
The SRM is more efficient than other types of induction motors. Its rotor is made of a steel core with distinct poles but doesn’t have any electrical windings. The SRM operates based on the principle of magnetic reluctance.
The magnetic flux naturally chooses the path with the least resistance, creating poles in the rotor that aligns with the stator’s magnetic field. To ensure it starts on its own, a special electronic circuit is used. The SRM operates at a synchronous speed, which makes it suitable for high speed EVs.
According to Vahan Data, a total of 7,21,971 EVs were sold in the first half of 2023. They include 4,34,914 two-wheelers, 2,46, 270 three-wheelers, and 38,359 passenger vehicles. Apart from the battery, the most important component in any electric vehicle is its motor.
And like any other electronic product, these motors will also evolve in the coming years. Since we’re on a pursuit to go electric in future, it is important to understand the working of electric motors and other major components of an EV.
