Do you know about the difference between electric vehicle gearbox and traditional transmissions in internal combustion engine vehicles? And why do electric vehicle gearboxes usually only have a single gear? To better understand this issue, Wuling EV Vietnam We will learn with you about how the gearbox works in electric vehicles right here!
1. Overview of electric vehicle gearboxes
Electric vehicle gearbox is an important part of the vehicle's transmission system. It ensures effective transmission of traction from the engine to the wheels. Most vehicles using internal combustion engines often have multi-speed transmissions to change gear ratios. As for electric vehicles, they often use a one-speed gearbox.
1.1. Structure of electric car gearbox
Electric vehicles operate more smoothly thanks to the simple structure of the gearbox with only one level. This explains why electric cars only have one gear level. With an electric motor capable of achieving high rotation speeds of up to 20,000 rpm. Electric vehicles do not need to change gear ratios like vehicles using internal combustion engines. This eliminates the need for a gearbox and optimizes operating efficiency Electric vehicles have gearboxes.
Do electric cars have gearboxes? Electric vehicles do not require a transmission thanks to the electric motor's ability to reach higher rotation speeds than gasoline vehicles
In addition, the electric motor is capable of generating maximum torque from the moment the driver presses the accelerator pedal from a stationary state. Electric vehicles only need a simple gearbox with a single gear ratio (1 level) to ensure transmission according to the driver's wishes. Electric vehicle gearbox has only one pair of gears but still ensures this gear ratio is maintained and helps the vehicle operate efficiently.
1.2. Operating principle of the gearbox
Does an electric car have a transmission?? In electric cars, there is no multi-speed gearbox like in cars using internal combustion engines. It Works based on the principle of single gear ratio (1 level). When the electric motor produces stable power and torque. The driver can adjust the vehicle's speed by increasing or decreasing without using a gearbox. Electric vehicles have gearboxes one level keeps the gear ratio constant and helps the vehicle operate efficiently.
The operating principle of an electric vehicle gearbox is demonstrated through a simple structure with only one level
2. Pros - Cons point of electric car gearbox
The electric vehicle is equipped with a simple one-speed gearbox to make control easier. The driver only needs to operate through simple function buttons such as D (forward), R (reverse) and N (intermediate state) without having to worry about shifting gears. Electric vehicle gearbox one level also does not cause shifting during sudden acceleration or deceleration. This provides a smooth and quiet driving experience.
The simple gearbox of an electric vehicle has only one level, demonstrating the convenience and efficiency in vehicle operation
Although the one-speed gearbox helps electric vehicles simplify operation, it also has limitations in upgrading. Some electric racing cars are equipped with two- or three-speed transmissions to improve performance at different speeds and save energy. So, while the single-speed gearbox offers convenience and ease of use. This may also limit the improvement of vehicle performance.
3. The difference between the gearbox of an EV car and the gearbox of an ICE car
EV (Electric vehicles) is a class of vehicles that use electric motors and uses the main source of energy from batteries or renewable energy sources. The electric motor of an electric vehicle generates power and torque from the power source. It does not need to rely on fossil fuels. Electric vehicles are often considered part of electric vehicle technology and are designed to operate entirely or almost entirely on electricity.
ICE (Internal combustion engine) is a class of vehicles that use an internal combustion engine. It uses fuel such as gasoline, diesel or other fuels. Internal combustion engines create power by using the principle of burning fuel inside the combustion chamber, creating power to move the vehicle. However, ICE still accounts for the majority of the market today.
Traditional automatic transmissions with multiple levels are usually heavier and require higher repair costs
Below is a table presenting the differences between the transmission of electric vehicles and vehicles using internal combustion engines:
| Characteristic | Electric Vehicle (EV) | Vehicles using internal combustion engines (ICE) |
| Range of vehicle | Uses electric motors and power from batteries or renewable sources | Use internal combustion engines and fuels such as gasoline and diesel |
| Gear | Electric vehicle gearbox is simple with a single gear, no need to change gears | Usually an automatic transmission or manual transmission with many gears |
| Efficiency | Lower due to fixed gear ratio | Higher due to flexible variable gear ratio |
| Structure | Light, compact and with few moving parts | Complex, many moving parts |
| Driving experience | Smooth, don't feel the gear shifting | Shifts feel sometimes, smooth when designed well |
| Weight and size | Lighter, compact | Heavier, bigger |
| Reliability and maintenance | Easy to maintain, few failures | More complicated, high repair costs |
4. Types of gearboxes today
Below is a detailed presentation of current gearbox types:
- 1-speed gearbox: This is the kind of electric vehicle gearbox most popular today. In this gearbox, there is no shifting of gears or other mechanical parts as in a traditional gearbox. Instead, simple electric motors work directly with the axle to provide power and speed depending on the driver's needs.
- 2-speed gearbox: Although rarer, some high-end electric cars such as the Porsche Taycan and Audi e-tron GT use a 2-speed transmission. This gearbox consists of two moving parts that can convert the transmission ratio to the wheels. Usually, the first gear is used for acceleration. While the second gear provides maximum performance and speed when traveling on the highway.
- Multi-speed gearbox (future): Some companies like Stellantis (owner of Jeep) have demonstrated models Electric vehicles have gearboxes manual with multiple gears, like the Wrangler Magneto concept with a 6-speed manual transmission. However, these multi-speed gearboxes are still in the research and development stage and have not been widely implemented in commercial products.
2-speed gearbox
Electric vehicle gearbox plays an important role in shaping the future of the automotive industry. Wuling EV Vietnam is gradually discovering and applying advanced technologies to optimize performance and driving experience. Thank you for reading and if you have any questions or comments, don't hesitate to share with us. We are always willing to listen and provide the most detailed information to answer all your questions.
