Recent years have been great for the success of electric vehicle sales in the United States. Research shows that over 200,000 units of electric vehicles have been purchased by Americans since their release. With all the additional information about the advantage of using electric cars, we can expect the demand to continue rising in the next few years.
Aside from the design and environmental advantage of using electric vehicles instead of diesel-powered ones, the customers want to know whether the performance of the motors are the same, or even much better than diesel-powered cars.
There are a lot of articles featuring AC vs. DC motors because these two are known to be the best in optimizing electric vehicles. The difference between the two is usually the number of volts with which the motor runs. DC motors run with 96 to 192 volts, while AC motors run at 240 volts. This aspect makes AC motors a better choice, but when it comes to the price range, DC motors are more affordable than the former.
Both AC and DC motors have one main purpose, which is to optimize electric vehicles and provide a better environment for a healthier planet. In comparing the AC motor vs. DC motor, one must know everything about AC and DC motors.
Here are all the AC vs. DC advantages:
AC Induction Motor
The AC induction motor is a three-phase motor that specializes in speed. It can run at 240 volts. This type of car motor is considered adaptable because it has regenerative features that can also be used as a generator and provide power to the vehicle’s battery. When it comes to efficiency and performance, electric cars that use AC motors have the advantage of a better grip, especially on rough roads. They have more acceleration and can be used for longer and tougher trips.
The only disadvantage of using an AC motor is that it can be more expensive compared to DC motors. AC motors are still very popular because they are ideal for high-performance cars and for people who will use their electric vehicle more often.
DC Brushless Motor
DC motors are most likely to run between 96 to 192 volts. The DC motor is a permanent magnet motor that uses rare elements and turns it into magnets. A lot of car manufacturers are deciding to switch from AC induction motors to DC motors because they have the advantage in terms of size and weight.
Although a lot of people are skeptical of the effectiveness and advantages of DC motors, they still have a lot to offer. One of the best features of DC motors is that it can also work as a motor for electric drills.
Car Manufacturers That Produce Models Using AC & DC Motors
In order to have a clear comparison for AC motors vs. DC motors, here are some of the electric vehicle manufacturers and the motors they use for their EVs.
- Tesla – Tesla is a large company that was established in 2003. It has become popular because of Elon Musk and his early and ongoing innovations. With a revenue of $11.8 billion, this company is focused on designing, manufacturing, and selling electric cars. The latest electric vehicle models they have released use AC induction motors.
- Chevrolet – A corporation that was built in 1911, Chevrolet has gained a revenue of over $50 billion with all the cars they have manufactured. They use DC brushless motors for the electric vehicles they have produced, including their famous Bolt EV.
- Nissan – Hiroto Saikawa is the head of this corporation and it manufactures and sells electric vehicles as well as gas vehicles. Nissan has a revenue of $73.6 billion. The latest EV model they have produced is the Nissan Leaf, which uses a DC brushless motor.
The type of motor is very important when choosing the right electric vehicle for you. Many car owners sometimes overlook this detail when they are looking to buy an electric car. The first thing you need to know is how often you are going to use your EV and where you are most usually going to use it. Ask questions to the manufacturer such as: Are electric motors AC or DC?
If you are looking to buy an electric vehicle to use in the city or on smooth roads, you can save money and invest on a DC brushless motor. If you want a stronger and faster electric car, an AC induction motor is the one for you. Make sure you understand all the AC vs. DC motor advantages before you choose the best one for you.
For all of your electric vehicle needs, Northwest Collision Center, an auto body repair shop in St. Petersburg, FL, provides all the needed services for any type of electric vehicle. We offer repainting, restoration, and detailing. Visit our website to know more. Contact us now!
