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Published on May 13, 2024

Decoding Electric Engines: How Do They Actually Work?

Nowadays, technological revolution and heightened environmental awareness put electric engines in the limelight. A remarkable 52% of prospective car buyers now lean toward electric vehicles (EVs) for their next purchase. This figure showcases a triple increase in preference for fully electric cars from 7% in 2020 to 20% in 2022.
 
With the automotive industry embracing electrification and renewable energy sources, understanding the mechanics behind electric engines is necessary. In this blog, you'll discover the fundamental operations of an EV car motor and how electric engines work.
 
 
How Do Electric Engines Work?
Electric engines operate on electromagnetism instead of traditional combustion engines, which power most modern cars. The EV car motor converts electrical energy stored in its battery into mechanical energy, moving the vehicle forward. 
 
In contrast, internal combustion engines (ICEs) generate mechanical energy through fuel combustion within a cylinder. This process involves igniting fuel-air mixtures to generate power, resulting in emissions like carbon dioxide and pollutants. 
 
As for the question, “How do hybrid engines work,” it combines critical components of both EV and ICE engines. One of the advantages of hybrid engines is that they utilize both electric and internal combustion elements for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to pure ICE vehicles.
 
EVs match up the parts of ICE vehicles—from gearboxes and traditional braking mechanisms—with an electric motor, inverter, and battery for electric propulsion. 
 
 
9 Main Components of an EV Car Motor Engine 
 
It helps to identify the specific parts of an EV car motor to understand how electric engines work. Knowing how these components power EVs lets you appreciate their efficiency, dependability, and benefits.
  
1.  Bearings
Bearings reduce friction and facilitate smooth rotation within the electric motor. They support the shafts and ensure minimal energy loss, improving the motor's efficiency and longevity.
 
2.  Thermal cooling system
Motors generate heat during operation, so a thermal cooling system is vital to maintain optimal temperatures and prevent overheating in EVs. This system drastically increases the lifespan and reliability of EV motors by dissipating excess heat.
  
3.  Enclosure
This part protects and insulates the internal components of an electric motor. The enclosure serves as a shield against environmental factors and mechanical damage, helping the motor endure various operating conditions.
 
4.  Stator and Rotor
The stator, stationary in the electric motor, houses wire coils that generate a magnetic field upon energization, interacting with the rotor to enable rotational motion for engine functionality. In contrast, the rotor, the motor's rotating component, engages with the magnetic field produced by the stator through magnets or conductive coils, leading to the mechanical motion of the motor shaft.
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5.  Brushes
EV brushes are fundamental in transmitting electrical current between stators and rotors within the engine. Brushes mounted on spring-loaded arms press against the commutator to establish and maintain contact, allowing electrical current to flow into the engine windings.
 
6.  Commutator
This mechanical mechanism switches the electric current within the coils. It ensures the EV's engine rotates in its desired and correct direction via slip-ring segments individually insulated from one another and the engine shaft.  
 
7.  Windings
This device refers to the coils of wire wound around a magnetic core within the electric car engine. These windings are a fundamental engine component, generating electromagnetic fields that convert electrical energy into mechanical energy to power electric cars.
 
8.  Armature coil and coil
Armature coils are essential for optimal motor function. When an electric current passes through the armature coil within the magnetic field, it experiences a force or rotates. This rotation transforms the electrical energy into mechanical motion, pushing the vehicle forward.
 
The armature core provides crucial support for the armature coil while ensuring its stability during operation. It securely holds the armature coil in place to prevent any misalignment or instability that may compromise its efficiency and performance.

9.  Field magnet
Field magnets create a magnetic field that pushes or pulls on the spinning coil, making it turn. This magnetic force changes electricity into movement, powering the motor. It's essential because it sets up the right magnetic conditions for the motor to work properly.
 
 
Embracing the Future of Electric Vehicle Technology
 
Electric engines represent a remarkable feat of engineering, showcasing the fusion of science and innovation. Countless efforts have been invested to refine this technology, ensuring that electric vehicles (EVs) are not only safe and reliable but also high-performing. 
 
The automotive industry's response to the demand for efficient and eco-friendly transportation solutions has led to the proliferation of EVs, which offer a promising pathway to a cleaner future by harnessing the power of electricity.
 
In the Philippines, BYD Pampanga Philippines stands out as a beacon of excellence in the realm of electric car technology. With unrivaled safety features, exceptional durability, and impressive energy density, BYD electric cars redefine sustainable driving without compromising on performance. Modern mobility and a greener tomorrow are now within reach, one electric mile at a time with BYD Philippines.

Explore our website, visit our social media platforms, or step into our showroom to glimpse the future of driving.