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How Do Electric Cars Work & Their Working Principle?

Today, in the heart of every city, one is likely to encounter electric cars silently plying on roads that earlier used to be filled with the noise of gasoline-powered vehicles.

These electrically-propelled vehicles are not only futuristic but also easily reversible in an environmentally friendly way. Their revolutionary technology promises smooth and emission-less travel, making them ideal for the daily commuter and the environmentally conscious.

This article will be useful to you if you want to know more about electric vehicles and their parts.

Team Digit

How do Electric Cars Work?
Components of Electric Cars
Types of Electric Cars
How to Charge an Electric Car
Benefits of Electric Cars
Drawbacks of Electric Cars
Frequently Asked Questions

How Do Electric Cars Work?

Electric vehicles operate on electrical energy that is converted into mechanical energy and subsequently distributed as kinetic energy to activate the motion of the vehicle. Unlike conventional vehicles that are fueled by petrol or diesel, electric vehicles are powered by electric motors thus utilizing electric energy as the main source of energy.

When the battery pack is charged, it accumulates electrical energy. The battery’s energy is then converted for use in the electric motor and other parts.
A regulator supplies electrical power to the motor in a controlled manner.
Using the accelerator pedal, the controller controls the current supplied by the pedal to the motor.
The electric motor receives energy from the battery and changes this energy into mechanical energy.
The mechanical energy output from the motor is passed to the wheels through the transmission.
Certain battery-based vehicles deliver energy produced by the braking system. This energy is captured and transferred back to the batteries during a break action or deceleration event.
The battery pack is replenished via the charge entry. The onboard charger performs the function of converting AC into DC.
The battery might be charged either through an external supply or by plugging into the vehicle’s charging point.
There is also a motor vehicle called the EV which has an extra battery that facilitates the running of other appliances and devices.
The auxiliary battery is charged by a DC-to-DC converter that converts the high-voltage amp supplied by the battery pack to a low-voltage amp.

What are the Components of Electric Cars?

Below are the main key components of an electric car:

Charge Port

A charge port delivers the energy from a power source to the battery pack of the electric vehicle, which is sometimes referred to as the Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) or Charging Station. The battery is replenished as soon as the EVSE plugs in charge in the charge point, be it at home or a commercial station.

Inverter

A powerful inverter is required to convert the rectified battery pack voltage into alternating current to supply the electric traction motor. While lithium-ion batteries generate a direct current only, the electric traction motors consume an alternative current; inverters come in place to fill that void.

Electric Traction Motor

This motor takes AC power from the inverter and mobilizes the EV as a traction motor. The electric traction motors have a clear advantage as compared to the DC motors in the fact that they are not needing to stress about either shifting the gears or the motor doing so.

Traction Battery Pack

The traction battery pack is aimed at storing energy from recharging the vehicle, to further utilize it for the motor and other power-consuming components of the vehicle. Most of the curricular electric vehicles have lithium-ion batteries in the traction battery pack because of advantages like fast recharge and low maintenance.

Electric Powertrain

The powertrain of the electrical vehicle gives an inclusive architecture for a high-voltage electrical system for the operational vehicle. Usually, this includes an inverter, electric traction motor, reduction drive, and traction battery.

What are the Types of Electric Cars?

Electric vehicles come in various types, each designed to cater to different driving needs and preferences. Understanding the type of electric cars will help you in selecting the right option for your lifestyle. Below are the types of eclectic cars present in the market:

1. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV)

Battery Electric Vehicles also known as BEVs contain only an electric driving unit powered by energy stored in a battery creating no extended use of an internal combustion engine or gas. As such no tailpipe emissions are produced and there are no batteries on board hence all the energy is obtained from a grid.

2. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV)

Hybrid Electric Vehicles also referred to as HEVs possess a limited battery pack combined with a gasoline motor. These vehicles cannot be plugged in to recharge the battery but use regenerative braking as well as a generator driven by the gasoline engine to charge the batteries.

HEVs burn mostly gas but use their electric motor for short intervals to assist the engine when needed for enhanced fuel economy.

3. Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles (PHEV)

Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles refer to PHEVs that make use of an electric traction motor and gasoline engine which provides the advantage of both electric and gas vehicles. PHEVs can accept a charge from electrical mains and use electric power until their battery gets exhausted.

Once the battery power is low, the already-started gasoline engine comes into play and continues to propel the car.

How to Charge an Electric Car?

Charging an electric car is straightforward and flexible, with options ranging from home charging setups to public charging stations. By connecting to an electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), drivers can easily recharge their batteries and ensure their car is ready for the road.

Below are some of the ways to charge an electric car:

1. Level 1 Charging

Level 1 charging employs a traditional 120-volt outlet, and consequently does not demand any additional apparatus. Only 2 to 5 miles can be covered for every hour charged. It is useful for charging at home but not that efficient during short charging periods.

2. Level 2 Charging

Level 2 charging systems connect to a 220 or 240-volt power supply and additional peripherals are required at homes or on the go. This method is significantly faster compared to Level 1 which gives about 10 to 25 miles when charged for an hour.

3. DC Fast Charging

DC Fast Charging does not require an AC-DC inverter since its major charging component is located within the charging station, where AC is directly converted into DC. Level 3 methods can charge the battery pack of an EV in between 15 to 45 minutes.

What are the Benefits of Electric Cars?

Below are some of the benefits of having an electric car:

1. Environmentally Friendly

Perhaps the most prominent advantage of electric cars is the effect they have on the environment. They generate no harmful emissions which helps mitigate pollution and reduce your carbon footprint. This is very advantageous, especially in urban cities where air pollution is a critical issue.

2. Avoid Fuel Price Hikes

In times when fuel costs are becoming more expensive and there are no signs of falling, purchasing an electric vehicle is one way to shield your finances from these exorbitant prices.

3. Low Maintenance Costs

Maintenance of electric cars is often much cheaper than that of gas-powered cars. They do not require plumbing and regular oil changes or troublesome repairs on the engine. Because the motor, battery, and electrical parts of an EV are all considerably fewer in terms of moving parts, very little maintenance is necessary.

4. Charge Conveniently at Home

Gone are the days of long queueing at a gas station with detour trips made to refuel. With an electric vehicle, you’ll never know how costly refuelling costs will be because it can be done at home in smooth order. It usually takes 4-5 hours to charge a battery fully.

5. Easy to Drive

Driving an electric car is a breeze, especially if you find traditional gear changes cumbersome. Therefore, instead of using gears, cars use various buttons and pedals, which enhances the level of convenience by producing a lot less hassles and making driving much more fun.

6. They Make No Noise

Electric vehicles are very silent as there is no petrol engine to make noise. It can silence the driving experience which is sometimes sought from using electric vehicles and enhance the enjoyment of travelling, working for diesel engine noise relaxation.

What are the Drawbacks of Electric Cars?

Some of the drawbacks of having an electric car are:

1. Limited Driving Range

Even though battery technology is improving, electric vehicles often have a shorter driving range compared to traditional cars. This can lead to range anxiety, especially on long trips or in areas where charging stations are few and far between.

2. Charging Infrastructure

The availability of charging stations can be limited, particularly in rural or remote areas. Although the number of stations is increasing, it still doesn’t match the convenience of gas stations. Additionally, charging an EV usually takes longer than refuelling a gas vehicle, which can be a drawback for some drivers.

3. High Upfront Cost

Electric vehicles generally come with a higher initial purchase price, mainly due to the cost of the battery. However, potential savings on fuel and maintenance over time can help offset the higher upfront cost.

4. Battery Life and Degradation

Over time, EV batteries can lose capacity, which might reduce driving range and performance. Replacing batteries can be costly, though prices are expected to decrease as technology advances and production scales up.

5. Limited Model Availability

Although more electric vehicle models are becoming available, the selection is still relatively limited compared to traditional vehicles. This can make it harder for buyers to find an EV that meets their specific needs, preferences, and budget.

6. Environmental Impact of Battery Production

The production of EV batteries can have environmental downsides, such as habitat destruction, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Efforts are being made to reduce these impacts through better sourcing practices, recycling, and advances in battery technology.

7. Lower Selling Price

Electric vehicles often have a lower resale value compared to their initial cost, due to reduced battery capacity over time. This lower selling price can be seen as a disadvantage compared to traditional vehicles, which typically retain higher resale values.

8. Limited Accessibility

Electric vehicles are still relatively expensive, which limits their accessibility to a wider audience. This smaller user base can result in less frequent updates and higher costs for both manufacturers and consumers.

9. Global Financial Impact

As electric vehicles replace traditional fuel-powered cars, countries that rely heavily on fuel sales might face economic challenges. A significant decline in fuel vehicle numbers could potentially lead to financial issues in economies dependent on fuel exports.

10. Expensive Recharging Options

Charging an EV at home can increase your electricity bill, and setting up a home charging station involves high installation costs. Regular upgrades to the charging infrastructure might also contribute to higher overall expenses.

Electric vehicles have become a perfect alternative to gas-powered vehicles. They have multiple advantages and disadvantages which make them differ from other vehicle types. They have proven to be environmentally friendly and are famous among most people.

FAQs about Electric Car Working

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How does an electric car work?

Electric cars operate by converting energy from their battery into power using an electric motor. This power drives the wheels directly, providing instant acceleration without the need for a traditional transmission. The electric motor delivers more torque and a smoother driving experience.

How many components does an electric car have?

Electric cars have fewer moving parts compared to traditional vehicles. While a conventional car might have nearly 2,000 moving parts, an electric car typically has about 20. This simplicity contributes to lower maintenance costs and a more streamlined driving experience.

Which battery is used in electric vehicles?

Most electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles use lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are known for their high energy density and efficiency, making them ideal for storing and supplying power to electric cars.

What is inside an EV car?

An electric vehicle (EV) primarily consists of three key components: the battery, the electric motor, and the power electronic converters. Together, these parts manage how power flows within the car and how the electric motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy.

Do electric cars run on AC or DC?

Electric cars use both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). The electricity from the grid is AC, but EV batteries store power as DC. Inverters within the car convert DC power from the battery to AC to drive the motor.

Do electric cars have simple working mechanisms compared to petrol/diesel cars?

Yes, electric cars have simpler mechanisms. They lack traditional gear systems and complex engines, making them easier to maintain. With fewer moving parts, they offer a straightforward driving experience compared to conventional vehicles.

Will the battery get charged while driving an electric car?

The battery does not charge while driving, but some electric vehicles use regenerative braking to capture and reuse energy when slowing down. This helps extend the vehicle’s range, though it doesn’t fully charge the battery.

How much time does it take to charge an electric car?

Charging time varies based on the vehicle, battery capacity, and charging station. Generally, a full charge can take from 4-5 hours at home or as little as 15-45 minutes at a DC fast-charging station.

Does an electric vehicle have an engine similar to petrol/diesel cars?

No, electric vehicles do not have an internal combustion engine. Instead, they are equipped with an electric motor that converts electrical energy into mechanical power to drive the wheels.

What are the disadvantages of a 100% electric vehicle?

Some disadvantages of electric vehicles include:

Limited speed and shorter range compared to traditional vehicles.
Charging stations can be hard to find in rural areas.
Higher purchase and maintenance costs.
Limited model options due to a smaller user base.

What are the effects of electric cars on the environment?

While electric cars don’t produce tailpipe emissions, their batteries and the electricity used to charge them can have environmental impacts. Battery production can lead to habitat destruction and pollution, and electricity from non-renewable sources can contribute to environmental harm.

What are the biggest advantages of electric vehicles?

The major benefits of electric vehicles include:

Lower operational costs.
Tax incentives and financial benefits.
Quiet and easy driving experience.
Convenience of home charging.

What are the advantages of hybrid electric vehicles?

Hybrid electric vehicles offer:

Reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions.
Improved sustainability with less reliance on gasoline.
Low maintenance needs.
Enhanced fuel efficiency by combining electric and gasoline power.

Why do electric vehicles have fewer operating expenses than gasoline-powered cars?

Electric vehicles generally have fewer operating expenses due to fewer moving parts, lower maintenance needs, and the typically lower cost of electricity compared to gasoline.

What are people’s worries about driving long distances with electric vehicles?

Concerns about long-distance travel with electric vehicles include:

Limited public charging infrastructure.
Longer charging times compared to refuelling.
Shorter driving range on a single charge.

How safe are electric vehicles? Do they catch fire?

Electric vehicles are generally safe, but their lithium-ion batteries can be combustible if damaged. Despite this, the risk of fire is much lower compared to gasoline vehicles.

What exactly is range anxiety? Is there anything I should be concerned about?

Range anxiety refers to the fear of running out of battery power before reaching a charging station. While this concern is valid, most EVs have a range that exceeds daily commuting needs, and fast-charging options and expanding charging networks help alleviate these worries.

Why do governments provide tax breaks for electric vehicle purchases?

Governments offer tax incentives for electric vehicles to encourage the adoption of cleaner, sustainable transportation and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. These incentives aim to decrease carbon emissions and promote environmental benefits.