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Difference Between Electric Motors vs Internal Combustion Engines in Cars

What is an Internal Combustion Engine?

What is an Electric Motor Engine?

Key Differences Between Internal Combustion Engine & Electric Motor

Both Internal Combustion Engine and electric motors perform the same function, i.e., powering cars, but in completely different manners. Here is a closer comparison:

Aspect Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Electric Motor
Energy Source ICE engines utilise petrol or diesel, non-renewable fossil fuels, as fuel; after combustion, they produce energy.  These electric motors run on electricity, which is stored in rechargeable batteries. The electricity which comes from storage comes mostly from renewable sources.
Efficiency ICE engines are inefficient. Only about 20-30% of the energy from fuel is converted into useful power. All else is dissipated as heat, so engines need to be cooled to prevent overheating. Electric motors are much more efficient. It converts 80-90% of electrical energy into usable mechanical energy. The efficiency is due to the motor's more straightforward design.
Environmental Impact ICE engines emit harmful pollutants. Some pollutants are carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. These emissions contribute to air pollution, climate change, and various health issues. Electric motors do not have any tailpipe emissions. While the fabrication of electricity and batteries has environmental impacts, the operational phases associated with electric motors are far cleaner than those associated with internal combustion engines (ICE).
Noise ICE engines are noisy because combustion occurs within them. Noise pollution can be particularly severe in towns. Nearly inaudible. Most of the sound would come from the tyres or wind resistance at high speeds. Thus, quiet operation contributes to reduced noise pollution.
Maintenance ICE engines require routine maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, and repairs to complex components such as the transmission and exhaust systems. Electric motors are simpler in design and have fewer moving parts. They tend to break less, don't require oil changes, and there's no exhaust system to service.
Range ICE automobiles have a much wider cruising range with an energy density thousands of times higher than gasoline or diesel fuel. A full tank still has enough power to bring hundreds of miles; refuelling is readily available and fast. The range of their batteries confines the electric vehicles' range. Its range varies, but most electric cars have a lower range than ICE vehicles. Moreover, charging stations are less abundant than refuelling stations, and charging takes much longer.

Performance Comparison of Electric Motors vs ICE Engine Cars

The performance characteristics of both differ fundamentally.  The following are some of the most pertinent factors influencing performance:

Parameter Electric Motors ICE Engines
Torque Electric motors have instant torque. That means maximum power as soon as you press the accelerator. That's a quick and smooth acceleration from a standstill. ICE engines take time to build torque as the revs build up. So, they tend to slow down acceleration at a standstill, particularly from a lower speed.
Speed Internal combustion engines are faster due to their design. They are capable of sustaining high power output for more extended periods. Electric motors aren't designed for extreme high-speed performance. But they're great for acceleration and efficiency, even at moderate speeds.
Weight ICE vehicles are lighter. However, it may have an unbalanced weight distribution due to the placement of the engine and fuel tank. That affects handling during sharp bends. Electric vehicles are generally heavier than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. It’s because of the big batteries. Those batteries add a lot of weight. However, a lower centre of gravity balances it.

Comparing Efficiency of Electric Motors vs Internal Combustion Engines

Longevity of Electric Motors vs Internal Combustion Engines

Internal combustion engines and electric motors vastly differ in many ways. Some of those differences are illustrated below:

Aspect ICE Engines Electric Motors
Design and Component Complexity ICE engines are full of moving parts. They nearly resemble pistons, valves, and crankshafts. These create tremendous friction and heat, leading to lower efficiency. Electric motors are much simpler in design. It has fewer moving parts and, hence, fewer mechanical failures and friction.
Maintenance Requirements ICE engines require maintenance. This includes oil changes, replacement of spark plugs, and cleaning of air filters. These measures are taken to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Electric motors require minimal maintenance, including occasional software updates and wiring checks.
Heat Generation and Damage High temperatures in ICE engines lead to wear and tear. They utilise advanced cooling systems, which optimise the engine's performance. The electric motors produce very minimal heat while in operation. This reduces heat damage, which in turn leads to increased life expectancy.
Longevity and Lifespan A well-maintained ICE engine typically lasts 150,000 to 200,000 miles. However, some last up to 250,000 if proper care is taken. Electric motors can have more than 300,000 miles and may even reach 500,000 miles or more. It is because their simplicity in design minimises mechanical wear.

Environmental Impact of ICEs vs Electric Motors in Cars

The environmental impact of a vehicle depends on the type of engine. Now, let’s break down both types of engines:

Aspect ICE Vehicles Electric Motors
Emission of Harmful Gases ICE vehicles emit a lot of pollutants. CO2, NOx, and particulate matter are among the primary factors contributing to air pollution. This poses a risk to all lives. EVs don't emit any tailpipe emissions. It also improves urban air quality and reduces the presence of harmful pollutants in the air.
Dependence on Energy Sources ICE vehicles run only on non-renewable fossil fuels. This is depleting resources and damaging the environment. They can be powered by renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. So, it reduces their dependence on non-renewable resources and produces zero emissions.
Energy Efficiency and Utilisation These ICE vehicles are inefficient. It only uses 20-30% of the energy in fuel for movement and operation. EVs are much more efficient than ICE vehicles. It uses up to 90% of the battery's energy for propulsion. So, it conserves energy and reduces waste in its operation.

Comparing Cost of Ownership for ICEs vs Electric Motor Cars

The ownership and maintenance costs for ICE vehicles and electric vehicles differ. This is crucial because their technologies differ. Here are the key points to compare what drives ownership costs in each of these two options:

Aspect ICE Electric Motor
Purchase Price Lower Higher
Fuel/Electricity Cost Higher over time Lower over time
Maintenance Regular and costly Minimal and cheaper
Resale Value Lower as it ages Higher due to lower depreciation

Transitioning from ICE to Electric Motors

User Adoption Challenges Between ICE and Electric Motor Cars

FAQs about Electric Vehicle vs ICE Vehicle