Electric Car Motors and Actuators Key Terms

Get up to speed with these electric car motors and actuators key terms

Interest in electric cars is at an all time high, and electric motor technology is fueling the excitement. DC series wound motors are currently the most common motors in electric cars, but 3-Phase AC induction motors also show great promise. Electric car conversion kits might help you make your dream of owning an electric car a reality. New technology increases the range of electric car motors and may eventually allow quick, partial recharges and battery switching.

 

Range

The range of an electric car motor describes how far you can drive without needing to recharge the battery. Manufacturers can only give you an estimate based on testing of a particular motor.
Try: TreeHugger.com has an article about recent advances by Tesla that increase the range of electric car motors.

Permanent magnet DC electric motors

In general, permanent magnet DC electric motors are for smaller vehicles such as motorcycles or scooters. They can be noisier than other motors, because they aren't brushless.
Try: Check out what the Lynch Motor Company is doing with its permanent magnet DC electric motors.

DC series wound electric car motors

DC series wound electric car motors have excellent torque even when starting from a standstill. The downside is that they don't climb hills well, and they have to run under a load.
Try: ZEVA uses diagrams to show how DC motors work and describes DC series wound electric motors as currently the most feasible option for electric cars.

3-Phase AC induction motors

3-Phase AC induction motors are more costly due to the cost of an inverter, but there are advantages. It can provide a better range and can handle a heavier car and rougher terrain than other motors.
Try: At Metric Mind, you can check out AC induction motors and their possible advantages in electric cars.

Electric actuators

Electric actuators are an essential part of your electric car motor, because they provide force and motion. Linear and rotary actuators are widely available.
Try: At Project Mechatronics, you can learn about recent advances in electric actuator technology.

Electric car conversion kits

Instead of buying a new car, convert your gas-guzzling vehicle into an electric one. You can purchase an electric car conversion kit online. Most kits require your vehicle to be under a certain weight or have manual transmission.
Try: Electro Automotive has a detailed chart on choosing an electric car conversion kits.

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