Motors and inverters
The two parts that actually make an EV move.
You'll learn
- Explain motors and inverters in plain language
- Recognise the key vocabulary
- Apply the idea to a real vehicle
Overview
The inverter is the brain and the motor is the muscle. Together they convert stored DC energy into precisely controlled torque, thousands of times per second.
In depth
Rotating field, rotating shaft
1
Stator field
2
Rotor spins
3
Shaft torque
4
Wheels
| Motor type | Strength | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent magnet synchronous | Highest efficiency, compact | Rare-earth magnets cost more |
| AC induction | No magnets, robust, cheap | Slightly less efficient at light load |
| Externally excited synchronous | No rare earths, efficient | More complex control and wiring |
Key takeaways
Remember this
- The inverter converts DC to AC and controls torque.
- Motors are over 90% efficient across most of their range.
- One gear ratio is enough because torque is available everywhere.
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