Do Electric Cars Have Transmissions?

Electric car transmissions are most definitely a thing. That said, they do in fact differ pretty significantly from the manual and automatic transmissions you’ll find equipped on standard gasoline vehicles. We’ll get into why that is very soon! But the simplified answer to your questions is that while there are fewer moving parts in an EV, they still do have a transmission. Ready to learn more? Read on or contact us anytime!

Are There Gears Are on Electric Cars?

We’ve established that electric cars have transmissions. But they’re quite different than the transmissions you’ll find in a run-of-the-mill gas car. Why? It’s because electric motors can produce near-instantaneous torque, unlike an internal combustion engine. Due to this, there’s really no need to “rev” the engine to make peak power during your Manahawkin drives. As such, transmissions in EVs are generally single-speed transmissions. They allow electric vehicle drivers like you to use up all the power in their vehicle as soon as they step on the accelerator.

What does all that mean? Here’s how an electric vehicle powertrain works:

1. When you hit the “gas”, electricity is sent from the battery to the electric motor.
2. As the motor spins, it also spins the gearbox. The gearbox is really what most drivers refer to when they’re talking about the transmission in an electric vehicle.
3. As the 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?

Electric cars have transmissions. But they’re less complex than gas car transmissions. Do they still require maintenance? The short answer is yes! The single speed transmission that is likely in your EV will generally still require at least some maintenance. For instance, some EVs actually have transmission fluid that requires regular replacement at routine intervals like gas cars. Not all electric cars have transmission fluid though! That having been said, we suggest you reference your owner’s manual for specifics on transmission maintenance. You can also, of course, simply call (732) 349-7474 or contact our service center if you’re unsure about proper EV transmission maintenance procedures for your vehicle.

Experience an Electric Vehicle Today at Honda of Toms River!

Ready to see for yourself how an EV can fundamentally change your relationship to driving in Brick and Manahawkin? Give us a call at (732) 349-7474 to take one of our electric, hybrid, or PHEV models out for a spin!