doesn’t automatically result in lower repair costs, but they aren’t required to have standard oil changes after certain mileage. Indeed, Teslas include oil filters, as do some other electric vehicles, although these are generally for the gearbox.
The gearbox in an electric vehicle differs from a traditional transmission since it often employs a single-gear configuration rather than a multi-gear one — conversely, some gas-powered vehicles have up to ten gears. This distinction relates to how electric vehicles manage torque, the twisting or rotational force from the motor that propels the vehicle, or more specifically, accelerates it.
Electric vehicles achieve acceleration immediately. An electric motor delivers peak torque the instant it is activated, meaning it can transition from 0 RPM to full power within seconds, significantly swifter than conventional engines. This capacity to span a broad power and speed spectrum largely negates the necessity for gear shifting. It is also the reason some electric vehicles require specialized tires capable of handling maximum torque outputs, alongside the increased weight of EVs due to their battery packs.
Most electric vehicles come with a single-speed gearbox that presents numerous advantages and harmonizes effectively with the expansive RPM range and immediate torque of an electric motor. These gearboxes contribute to weight reduction, which is crucial since EVs already carry substantial weight from their battery packs. In addition, they simplify maintenance and enhance smooth acceleration due to the extra torque. Incorporating a manual transmission in an electric vehicle would add complexity, weight, and a degree of confusion for drivers.