How do electric cars move without a petrol engine?

In an electric vehicle, the battery pack stores energy, usually in lithium-ion cells, and sends it to an inverter that controls the motor. The motor creates rotation through electromagnetic forces, often using either AC induction or permanent magnets. Because there is no combustion engine, EVs can deliver instant torque and smooth acceleration. Regenerative braking lets the motor act as a generator to recover some energy while slowing down. Modern EVs became mainstream in the 2010s, although early electric cars appeared in the 19th century.