How Do Electric Cars Work?

An electric vehicle (EV) stores energy in a large lithium-ion battery pack (typically 40-100 kWh) mounted in the floor. When the driver presses the accelerator, a controller draws power from the battery and feeds it to one or more electric motors, which convert electrical energy into rotational force (torque) to turn the wheels. Electric motors deliver instant torque from 0 rpm, giving EVs rapid acceleration. Regenerative braking recovers kinetic energy during deceleration, converting it back to electricity and recharging the battery. Because electric motors have far fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines — no pistons, crankshaft, or transmission in many designs — maintenance costs are significantly lower.