Dual motor in an EV refers to a drivetrain setup with two electric motors, usually one for the front wheels and one for the rear wheels. Dual motor setups are common in premium or performance-oriented EVs. This configuration, also called all-wheel drive (AWD), provides several benefits.
In this blog, EVJoints brings you an in-depth insight into dual motor setups in EVs and their advantages:
Improved traction & stability: Powering both front and rear wheels enhances grip, especially in slippery conditions like rain or snow, as each motor can independently adjust power to its respective axle.
Better performance: Dual motors deliver higher combined power and torque, resulting in faster acceleration compared to single motor EVs.
Efficiency & range optimization: Dual motors can either work together or independently, allowing the EV to switch between front, rear, or all-wheel drive modes to optimize energy use based on driving conditions.
Regenerative braking: Dual motors can enhance regenerative braking, where both motors recapture energy during negative acceleration (or deceleration), thereby improving efficiency.
How can dual motors affect an EV’s performance?
Dual motors provide more combined power and torque, enabling faster acceleration. For instance, Tesla Model 3 dual motor variant achieves 0-100 km/hr acceleration in 4.2 seconds, compared to 5.8 seconds for its single motor counterpart.
Advanced softwares in dual motor electric cars help optimize torque distribution between axles, enhancing responsiveness during faster driving.
How does dual motors affect an EV’s range & efficiency?
Dual motors typically consume more energy than a single motor due to higher power output and the added weight of the 2nd motor. This can reduce the EV’s range. For example, the Tesla Model 3’s single motor variant has a claimed range of 425 km, while the dual motor AWD variant offers a claimed range of 400 km under similar conditions.
Advanced software in dual motor electric cars help optimize efficiency by selectively engaging one motor during low-demand driving. This can mitigate range loss to some extent.
Scan the barcode and download the EVJoints app to find 6,000 EV charging stations across various networks.
Click & download the EVJoints app to find 6,000 charging stations.
Why dual motors matter in India?
Indian roads can throw a lot of challenges to drivers, from uneven terrain to slippery streets during monsoons. Dual motors, typically with all-wheel drive (AWD), provide better traction & stability, especially during heavy rains or on unpaved dirt roads. Dual motors enhance grip by distributing power to both axles, reducing the risk of skidding or getting stuck. This improves safety and drive quality in challenging conditions.
India’s EV market is expanding, with a rising demand for premium cars. Dual motor variants, often found in top-spec models, appeal to buyers looking for performance and advanced features, aligning with the aspirations of India’s growing upper-middle & upper class.
Which electric cars come with dual motor in India?
Most high-end electric cars are available with dual motor configuration in India. Premium electric cars like Mercedes EQC, EQE, EQS, Kia EV6, Audi e tron, Volvo XC40 Recharge, Jaguar i Pace, BYD Seal, BYD Sealion 7 among others, come with dual motor & AWD setup.
Tata Motors is launching the Harrier EV with a dual motor setup, thereby making it the most affordable electric car with dual motor in India.
Industry gurus expect Mahindra to follow suit and introduce AWD versions of the BE 6 & XEV 9e in the future.
Conclusion:
Affordable electric cars with dual motor setup will introduce an exciting chapter in the Indian car market. An EV with dual motors effectively handles diverse road conditions, monsoons and hilly terrains, while meeting the performance expectations of urban and premium buyers.
At present & going forward, EVs can & will come in multiple motor configurations like single, dual, triple or even separate motors for each wheel. If you want us to explore more on this topic and come up with blogs on triple motor electric cars or EVs with motors for each wheel, leave us a comment below.
