Do Electric Cars Have Transmissions?

As more Leander owners explore electric vehicles as their next upgrade, they have many questions. Many drivers choose EVs since they can save on gas during their commute. While not having to fill up is one benefit, the lack of maintenance and service is another. 

When it’s time to schedule service, there’s much less to take care of. So, do electric cars have transmissions? Yes, they do. But it’s unlike what you’ll find in a regular gas-powered vehicle. In the following guide, the Covert Cadillac service team will explore more about electric car transmissions and what you can expect as a first-time buyer.

How Many Gears Are There on Electric Cars?

As we discuss what makes an electric car transmission, they’re much different than what’s found on traditional gas-powered vehicles. This is because an electric motor produces near-instantaneous torque, unlike an internal combustion engine. Due to this aspect, there’s no need to rev the engine making peak power during any Georgetown drives.

So, how does that impact the gears on electric cars? It means that the vast majority of EVs have a single-speed transmission. This allows electric vehicle drivers to use up all their power in their cars when they step on the accelerator. Here’s how an EV powertrain works: 

1. As you step on the accelerator, electricity is sent from your battery to the electric motor.
2. As your motor spins, it will also spin the gearbox. The gearbox is what most drivers refer to when they’re talking about electric car transmissions. 
3. As the electric motor and gearbox spin, your EV will also begin to move. Some electric motors can rotate up to 20,000 rpm. By control, most internal combustion engines on a vehicle only rotate up to 7,000 rpm.
4. When you put your electric vehicle into reverse gear, the electric motor will spin backward, unlike in a standard gas-powered vehicle where a separate gear is in the transmission so that you move in reverse. 

Do You Have To Maintain Electric Car Transmissions?

Beyond gears on electric cars, one reason many Cedar Park drivers love owning EVs is thanks to lower maintenance. No internal combustion engine means no engine oil to worry about, meaning you won’t need to schedule oil changes. Since electric cars have transmissions, you have to maintain them depending on your specific model. 

Some electric vehicles have transmission fluid that needs to be exchanged at recommended intervals. Not all electric vehicles have transmission fluid, so we recommend you reference your owner’s manual for specifics on any transmission maintenance. You can also contact our service department if you have additional questions about EV maintenance. 

Experience an Electric Vehicle Today at Covert Cadillac!

Now that you have an answer to, “Do electric cars have transmissions? It’s time to explore the unique EV options at Covert Cadillac. Whether you’re looking at a LYRIQ or the recently unveiled Celestiq, this is a manufacturer committed to electric models.

Explore our new vehicle specials to see how much you can save on your new EV near Leander. You can also get the process started by applying for financing online in our secure portal. Discover the next wave of all-electric driving in Austin with Covert Cadillac!