Do Electric Cars Have Transmissions?

More and more electric vehicles are hitting the market as drivers are searching for automobiles that are more eco-friendly. While not having to deal with the hassle and cost of frequent trips to the gas station is certainly a huge perk of EV ownership, another major benefit is that EVs require significantly less maintenance.

EVs will still need regular service appointments, but there are less moving parts to worry about. Because EVs run on an electric motor, a common question we hear at Northside Chevrolet is, “Do electric cars have transmissions? The answer to this question is yes. You will find an electric car transmission on your favorite EV. However, there are quite a few differences between an electric car transmission and the transmission on a gasoline-powered vehicle. In the guide below, learn all about the gears on electric cars and more.

Gears on Electric Cars

An electric car transmission is different from the transmission on a gasoline-powered vehicle because an electric motor can produce near-instantaneous torque. This is not the case with an internal combustion engine.

What about the gears on electric cars? Most EVs have a single-speed transmission. As soon as the driver presses the accelerator on an EV, all the power in the vehicle is available. Here’s how it works:

1. With the press of the accelerator, electricity is sent from the battery to the electric motor.
2. When the motor spins, the gearbox does as well. The gearbox is what’s frequently called the electric car transmission.
3. When the electric motor and gearbox spin, it propels the EV.
4. When an EV is shifted into reverse, the electric motor essentially spins backward. This differs from a standard gasoline-powered vehicle, which features a separate gear in the transmission that allows the car to travel in reverse.

Electric Car Transmission Maintenance

With an EV, services like oil changes are a thing of the past. Electric car transmission maintenance will still be needed in most cases, though. Some EVs actually have transmission fluid that will need replacement at specific intervals. However, this is not the case for all EVs, so it is a good idea to take a look at your owner’s manual to see what electric car transmission maintenance is recommended. You can also bring your questions to our service department.

Experience an EV with Northside Chevrolet

Interested in seeing how an EV performs on the roads of San Antonio? Visit our showroom near New Braunfels. We are just a short drive from Schertz and Boerne. We would be delighted to get you set up with a test drive. Contact us today for more information.