How Do Electric Cars Work?
Electric cars use an electric motor and batteries instead of a fuel engine. They operate using an electric motor powered by a traction battery pack, allowing for simplified design and reduced maintenance needs compared to traditional vehicles.
Lithium-ion batteries provide high energy density and efficiency, facilitating improved vehicle performance and driving dynamics through effective energy management systems.
Electric cars contribute significantly to environmental sustainability by producing zero CO₂ emissions, no engine noise, no harmful pollutants such as SOx, NOx or carbon monoxide, unlike petrol and diesel vehicles.
The Basics of Electric Cars
The defining feature of electric cars is their reliance on an electric motor instead of an internal combustion engine. Unlike traditional diesel or petrol vehicles, which burn fuel to generate power, electric vehicles (EVs) draw energy from high-capacity batteries to drive an electric motor. At CUPRA, we have embraced this transition, designing EVs such as the CUPRA Born and CUPRA Tavascan which use this technology.
Key Components of Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles rely on several essential components that work together to deliver power efficiently:
- Traction Battery Pack: Stores electrical energy and supplies power to the motor.
- Electric Traction Motor: Converts electrical energy into mechanical power, driving the wheels.
- Power Electronics Controller: Regulates the flow of electrical energy from the battery to the motor, controlling speed, torque and overall efficiency.
Unlike conventional cars, EVs do not require components such as fuel tanks, exhaust systems or engine oil, resulting in a simpler design and lower maintenance requirements. The reduced number of moving parts also enhances reliability and longevity, making electric vehicles a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to internal combustion engine vehicles.
The Role of the Electric Motor
The electric motor is the powerhouse of electric cars, replacing the conventional combustion engine with a more efficient and responsive alternative. Most electric cars use brushless DC (BLDC) motors, which provide several advantages, including higher efficiency and lower maintenance. These motors receive electrical energy from the battery and convert it into mechanical energy to drive the wheels.
The transmission in an electric vehicle plays a crucial role by transferring mechanical power from the motor to the wheels. This setup allows for instant acceleration, a feature that sets electric cars apart from their combustion engine counterparts. Electric motors offer immediate torque, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience.
Powering Up: Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are the lifeblood of electric vehicles, serving as the primary energy storage system. These batteries are favoured for their high energy density and efficiency, making them ideal for electric cars. The electrical energy stored in these batteries flows to an inverter, which converts it into AC power needed by the motor.
To ensure maximum battery capacity and the best dynamic performance, the vehicle floor is used to house the battery modules, optimising weight distribution and driving dynamics.
Energy Management Systems
Effective energy management is crucial for the efficiency of electric cars. The inverter plays a pivotal role by converting DC electricity from the batteries into AC electricity for the motor. Our models even use bi-directional inverters to recharge the batteries during regenerative braking.
The thermal system in electric vehicles ensures that the batteries and other components operate within the proper operating temperature range, enhancing performance and extending battery life.
Additionally, the 12V auxiliary battery powers essential vehicle functions such as lights, infotainment and electronic control systems. Just like in conventional ICE vehicles, its role is to ensure these electrical systems operate smoothly.
The energy management controller regulates the flow of electrical energy from the traction battery to the motor, optimising performance and efficiency. This precise control helps maintain the overall health and longevity of the vehicle’s energy systems.
Regenerative Braking
Regenerative braking is a game-changing feature in electric cars, allowing them to recover energy that would otherwise be wasted. During braking, the system converts the vehicle’s kinetic energy into electrical energy, which is then fed back into the main battery. This process not only improves efficiency but also extends the driving range of electric vehicles.
The electric motor operates in reverse during braking, generating electricity instead of merely relying on friction brakes. Sophisticated electronic controls manage this process, ensuring optimal energy recovery. Regenerative braking is particularly effective in stop-and-go traffic, where frequent braking occurs.
By potentially recovering up to 50% of the energy typically lost during conventional braking, regenerative braking significantly enhances the overall efficiency of electric cars.
Charging Your Electric Car
Charging an electric car is a straightforward process, thanks to the widespread availability of charging infrastructure. Electric vehicles are charged using a charge port that connects to an external power supply. Home charging is often sufficient for daily driving needs, especially with a dedicated EV charger.
Public charging stations can be found in various locations, including service stations, supermarkets and public car parks. With CUPRA’s public charging service, drivers have access to a vast network of over 850,000 charging stations across Europe. Through the My CUPRA app, users can conveniently locate and access these stations with a single tariff and a single invoice, simplifying the charging experience.
Additionally, while driving a CUPRA Born or CUPRA Tavascan, users can access real-time information on charging locations, pricing, available services, user ratings and station accessibility thanks to the CUPRA Charging Map.
Fast chargers can recharge up to 80% of an EV’s battery in approximately 24 minutes for the CUPRA Born and 28 minutes for the CUPRA Tavascan, minimising downtime.
The My CUPRA App helps users locate suitable public charging points and check their compatibility.
Environmental Benefits of Electric Cars
One of the most compelling reasons to switch to electric cars is their environmental benefits. Unlike diesel cars, electric vehicles do not produce tailpipe emissions, significantly reducing air pollution. This reduction in emissions contributes to cleaner air and a healthier environment.
Electric vehicles emit over three times less CO2 on average than petrol cars in Europe, making them a more sustainable choice. In the best-case scenario, an electric car can produce up to 83% less CO2 than a petrol car. As the reliance on renewable energy sources increases, the carbon footprint of electric vehicles is expected to decrease even further by 2030.
Overall, the lifecycle of electric vehicles results in a lower carbon footprint, contributing to fewer emissions and reduced greenhouse gases. The shift towards electric cars is a significant step towards a more sustainable future.
Performance and Driving Experience
Electric cars offer a unique and enhanced driving experience compared to internal combustion engine vehicles. The absence of gear shifts results in a smoother drive, while instant torque provides exceptional acceleration and responsiveness. This feature is particularly noticeable at lower speeds, making city driving more enjoyable.
Electric cars also perform well in off-road conditions, thanks to their ability to deliver torque instantly on various surfaces. The quiet operation of electric vehicles further enhances the driving experience by reducing noise and vibrations inside the cabin.
Overall, driving electric cars is a pleasure, combining performance, comfort and efficiency in a way that traditional vehicles simply cannot match.
Comparing Electric Cars to Hybrid Vehicles
At CUPRA, we offer both fully electric and hybrid models to suit different driving needs. Our electric vehicles (EVs) provide instant acceleration, a smooth drive and zero tailpipe emissions, making them a great choice for sustainability and performance. While charging networks continue to grow, our plug-in hybrids offer the best of both worlds – electric driving for shorter trips and a petrol engine for longer journeys.
Go fully electric with the CUPRA Born or the CUPRA Tavascan, or choose an e-HYBRID like the Leon, Formentor and Terramar – our electrified models combine performance and efficiency for a driving experience like no other.
Future of Electric Vehicles
The future of electric cars holds many possibilities, with ongoing advancements improving efficiency and practicality.
Battery technology continues to evolve, enhancing performance, while the expansion of fast-charging infrastructure is reducing range anxiety.
Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology is also being explored by the car industry as a potential way for cars to charge during low-demand periods and support grid stability.
Looking ahead, used car batteries could potentially be repurposed for stationary energy storage. As technology and infrastructure develop, electric vehicles may play an even greater role in future energy solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to run an electric car?
It is generally cheaper to run an electric car compared to petrol alternatives due to lower fuel costs and reduced maintenance expenses. Charging at home can significantly enhance these savings.
How do electric cars work?
Electric cars function by using an electric motor that is powered by energy stored in lithium-ion batteries. This stored energy is converted into mechanical power to drive the wheels, supported by essential components such as the traction battery pack and power electronics controller.
What is regenerative braking in electric cars?
Regenerative braking is a system in electric cars that captures kinetic energy during braking and converts it into electrical energy to recharge the battery, thereby improving efficiency and extending the vehicle's driving range.
How long does it take to charge an electric car?
Charging an electric car typically takes several hours when using a home charger, whereas fast chargers can recharge up to 80% of the battery in approximately 24 minutes for the CUPRA Born and 28 minutes for the CUPRA Tavascan. Ultimately, the charging time depends on the charger type and battery size.