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How Electric Vehicles Work

Electric vehicles look similar in form and function to ‘regular’ (internal combustion engine-powered) vehicles. However, the similarities are ‘skin-deep’ – there are many significant mechanical differences between the two. In place of the traditional propulsion components (engine, starter, radiator and water pump, starter, transmission, differential, exhaust system, and fuel tank), electric vehicles have a battery pack, one or more electric motors, and inverter. The differences also offer significant experience benefits, for example,

  • smooth, quiet, and powerful performance (electric motors deliver instant access to torque and this is delivered smoothly),
  • great handling with the low center of gravity (battery packs are heavy and are placed low in the vehicle), and
  • excellent storage and cabin capacity.

The following 10 minute video by Patreon.com explains how electric vehicles work very well. It uses the Tesla Model S to tell the story.