Electric vehicles (EVs) are transforming the automotive landscape, and their drivetrain configurations play a pivotal role in defining their performance, efficiency & suitability for diverse driving needs. In this blog, EVJoints brings you everything you need to know about drivetrains, its types and which configuration might be best for a potential EV buyer:
What is a Drivetrain in an Electric Vehicle?
In an EV, the drivetrain refers to the system that delivers power from the electric motor to the wheels, enabling the vehicle to move.
It encompasses all components that convert electrical energy into mechanical energy and transfer it to the wheels for propulsion.
What are the different electric vehicle drivetrain types?
Single-Motor Drivetrain: Powers either the front or rear wheels (Front-Wheel Drive or Rear-Wheel Drive).
Dual-Motor Drivetrain: Uses two motors, typically one for each axle, enabling All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for better traction and performance.
Multi-Motor Drivetrain: Found in high-performance EVs, with multiple motors (e.g., one per wheel) for precise torque control and enhanced handling.
What is FWD (Front Wheel Drive) in EVs?
Front-wheel drive (FWD) in EVs refers to a drivetrain configuration where the electric motor delivers power to the front wheels for propulsion.
It typically involves a single electric motor mounted at the front axle. Almost all affordable electric cars (like Tata Nexon EV, Tiago EV, MG Comet EV, etc) use this configuration.
What is RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) in EVs?
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) in EVs refers to a drivetrain configuration where the electric motor delivers power to the rear wheels for propulsion. It typically involves a single electric motor mounted at the rear axle. In India, the Mahindra XEV 9e, Mahindra BE 6, Hyundai IONIQ 5 and BYD Seal come with RWD configuration.
This type of configuration is also found in the entry-level variants of performance electric cars (like the base variants of Tesla Model 3 & Porsche Taycan, etc).
What is AWD (All-Wheel Drive) in EVs?
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All-wheel drive (AWD) in EVs refers to a drivetrain configuration where power is delivered to all four wheels, typically using two or more electric motors. It typically involves electric motors mounted at the front & rear axle both.
This type of configuration is found in premium performance electric cars (like Tesla Model 3 Performance, Audi e-tron, etc). To learn more about dual motor setup, visit Dual Motor in EVs.
The above three drivetrains (FWD, RWD & AWD) underpin conventional as well as electric cars, but eAWD is a drivetrain exclusive to electric cars. More on it below:
What is eAWD and how is it different from AWD?
eAWD or electric all-wheel drive refers to an AWD system specifically designed for electric powertrains, where multiple electric motors (typically one for the front axle and one for the rear axle) deliver power to all four wheels. Although eAWD is a type of AWD, it is unique in the aspect that it is tailored for EVs, leveraging the instant torque and precise control of electric motors to optimize performance, traction & efficiency.
eAWD systems can disengage one motor or axle when full power isn’t needed (like during cruising), improving energy efficiency compared to traditional AWD systems. This type of configuration is found in high performance electric cars (like Tesla Model Y Performance, Audi e-tron Quattro, BYD Seal Performance etc). From an Indian perspective, the Tata Harrier EV comes with the eAWD configuration. Tata Motors has branded it as QWD, but in reality it comes with a dual-motor setup.
What is Quad-Motor AWD (QWD) in EVs?
Quad-Motor AWD (also known as QWD, or Quad-Wheel Drive) is an advanced all-wheel drive system that uses four separate electric motors, one for each wheel. This configuration provides independent power delivery and torque control to every wheel, offering unparalleled precision, traction & performance. It’s a specialized form of eAWD (electric All-Wheel Drive) designed for maximum control.
This configuration is often found in high-performance or off-roading EVs (like Tesla Cybertruck top variant).
Which drivetrain is best in EV?
- The ‘best’ drivetrain for EV buyers depends on factors like driving conditions, performance needs, budget & efficiency.
- FWD is best for budget-conscious buyers and urban commuters.
- RWD is best for enthusiast drivers and those seeking sporty handling.
- AWD & eAWD are best for those wanting balanced performance & traction, and moderate off-roaders.
- Quad motor AWD is best for performance enthusiasts, serious off-roaders, and those seeking maximum traction in extreme conditions.
Conclusion:
The choice of drivetrain in electric cars depends on the driver’s priorities, driving conditions & budget. Your choice should reflect your driving environment, whether it’s city streets or rugged trails, alongside budget & range priorities.
For more insights on EVs & EV charging, visit EVGuide by EVJoints.
