The success of electric vehicles in America has been remarkable, with over 200,000 of these purchased since the first modern electric car was introduced in 1996 by General Motors. The demand for this specialty car is expected to increase in the coming years, given all the information made available listing the benefits of driving an electric car.
Electric Car Motor Performance
Apart from its design and environmental features, prospective buyers are mostly interested in finding out how the motor of a typical electric car performs when ranged against other brands. The usual question is whether the motor that powers an electric car is just as good or perhaps even better than that which runs a diesel-based vehicle.
To clarify, electric cars can run well on either AC or DC motor as both have been found to be the most efficient in optimizing this modern vehicle type. Many articles, however, have made a few comparisons between the AC and the DC motors.
Regardless of the differences, experts agree that both AC and DC motors are designed to optimize electric vehicles so a better and safer environment can be created for future generations. Still, It is important to understand everything about AC and DC motors so you can make a wise and informed decision on what should power your electric car.
AC Induction Motor
When choosing an electric vehicle, it is important to consider the type of motor that will make it run.This important detail is often overlooked by prospective buyers.
For AC motors, the following should be noted:
AC motors have a three-phase function that specializes in speed. These can run at 240 volts and can power an electric vehicle’s batteries, and when needed, serve as a generator.
AC motors are more efficient and perform well when operating electric cars. This is especially true when traveling on rough roads.
Most electric car owners prefer AC motors simply because it’s the more popular model. Other than that, the motor is reliable as it performs well even when the electric car is frequently used and when it goes on long and difficult trips.
AC motors are quite expensive, but this is somewhat understandable. Given the benefits that you can get, the price of an AC motor should be worth it.
DC Brushless Motor
For those who are considering a DC motor for their electric vehicles, below are the factors that they can look into.
Most DC motors will run from a low of 96 volts to a high of 192. It’s definitely a lot slower than the AC motor when it comes to speed, but this should not really matter if you’re not the fast-driver type.
This motor type runs on magnet, which is why it’s sometimes called the permanent magnet motor. Briefly, the DC motor uses rare elements and turns them into magnets so it can power your electric car.
Many car manufacturers are gradually switching from AC induction motors to DC motors in terms of operating an electric vehicle. This is due to the size and weight of the typical DC motor, which is often smaller and lighter when compared to its AC counterpart.
Many people are skeptical about the benefits and effectiveness of DC motors. However, the best thing about this motor type is its ability to adapt by being used to power electric drills.
DC motors have a lower price tag compared to ACs. This is a bit surprising when you consider what you can get when buying this motor, and which is probably the reason more prospective electric car buyers are choosing the DC.
Electric Car Manufacturers Using AC and DC Motors
Below is a list of electric vehicle manufacturers and the motors they use to run their EVs.
Founded by innovator Elon Musk in 2003, the company operates on a $11.8 billion revenue with a focus on designing, manufacturing, and selling electric cars. Its latest electric vehicle models run on AC induction motors.
The company manufactures and sells electric and gas-based vehicles with a revenue of $73.6 billion. It has just released the DC brushless motor-operated Nissan Leaf.
Established in 1911, this iconic car manufacturer boasts of a total revenue of over $50 billion. Its electric vehicles, notably the Bolt EV, are powered by DC brushless motors.
Key Takeaway
A DC brushless motor is a great option if you’re looking for an electric vehicle that you can use on city streets. An AC induction motor, meanwhile, is better if you want a faster and stronger electric car. Before deciding which one is the best for you, list down what you like about the two motor types. You can also check out Northwest Collision Center for more information about electric vehicles.
