How Do Electric Cars Work?


Electric cars have a different method of operation compared to regular petrol/diesel cars. These unique vehicles function by plugging into a charging point and charging through grid electricity.
But, how does the electric charge result in a moving vehicle. This article will give you complete information on how electric vehicles function! Keep reading.
How Do Electric Cars Work?
The working of an electric car is vastly different from that of conventional fuel vehicles. Read below to understand how electric vehicles work:
- A battery pack in the EV stores the electrical energy when you plug the car into a power outlet. The vehicle uses this stored energy to power the engines and the different components.
- The car's controller manages the flow of energy to the motors. It takes signals from the accelerator pedal to alter the energy flow from the battery.
- After receiving the electrical energy, the motor converts it into mechanical energy.
- Then, the transmission transfers this mechanical energy from motors to operate the wheels.
- You can charge the battery pack of the vehicle using a charging port. The onboard charger is capable of converting AC power to DC power.
- There is also an auxiliary battery to power the accessories and other components in the vehicle.

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Electric Car Engines
Now, let's have a look at how the engines in electric cars work. In EVs, the electric motor replaces the machines. Generally, car manufacturers use AC motors in electric vehicles. Let's further understand the working of electric motors in an electric car.
- As you press the pedal, the Power Electronics Controller will allow the flow of electrical energy to the car's motors.
- The amount of current flow will directly depend on your input to the accelerator pedal.
- After receiving the power, the rotors spin and generate mechanical energy.
- This mechanical energy starts to rotate the transmission or the gears.
- Lastly, the transmission channels the mechanical energy to the wheels, thereby propelling the vehicle forward.
Like a conventional fuel car, the electrical motor is the heart of the vehicle's electric drivetrain.

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Charging an Electric Vehicle
You might be wondering how you should charge an electric car. Well, the EVs have a charging port and a charger. These components convert AC power to DC power. An electric vehicle will have various types of charging connectors.
The connector type will depend upon your car brand and battery capacity. But, the principle of charging an EV is the same with every connector type.
You can recharge your EV by plugging it into an external power source. You can visit a nearby charging station or use the power outlet in your home.

Photo Credit: unsplash.com
Electric cars are our way to a sustainable and eco-friendly future. Hopefully, this article clears all your doubts about how electrically-powered vehicles work!
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