More and more automotive manufacturers are choosing to produce electric and battery-powered vehicles instead of traditional gasoline-powered cars. Some manufacturers are even reviving current and past models in electric form, such as the new Porsche Macan, Lexus LFA, and more recently, the new Dodge Charger.
While electrification is crucial for the future of the automotive industry, there still seem to be some concerns, particularly that most electric vehicles have a maximum speed limited to below 140 miles per hour (225 km/h), with some even capped at 100 miles per hour (160 km/h). Although these figures are quite fast for the average user, they are significantly lower compared to similar models using internal combustion engines.
Electric vehicles only have a single-speed transmission, which also limits maximum speed. (Illustrative image).
Single-Speed Transmissions Prioritize Acceleration Over Maximum Speed
One of the primary reasons for the limited maximum speed of electric vehicles is their transmission. Unlike gasoline vehicles, electric cars typically only have a single-speed transmission and need to rev faster to maintain a stable speed. A single-speed transmission allows electric vehicles to accelerate quickly due to the high torque generated by electric motors from the get-go. However, this single-speed setup also means that maximum speed is limited. Electric motors produce high torque at low speeds, but this decreases as speed increases. A single-speed transmission cannot effectively manage torque at high speeds, resulting in lower maximum speeds.
In contrast, gasoline vehicles use multi-speed transmissions to adjust engine RPM according to speed, helping to maintain optimal power at both low and high speeds. This allows gasoline cars to achieve higher speeds.
Gasoline cars have multi-speed transmissions, allowing them to reach higher speeds. (Illustrative image).
Most electric vehicles today have speed limits imposed by traffic laws (around 110 km/h). The single-speed transmission focuses on acceleration capabilities, meeting the usual driving needs while keeping production costs low.
However, some automakers are trying to change this. Tesla, Porsche, and Lexus have delved into their technical capabilities and discovered that adding a two-speed transmission could significantly increase the maximum speed of electric vehicles. One transmission can focus on acceleration, while the second can help maintain power as speed gradually increases. Nonetheless, this solution comes with substantial financial burdens, as developing electric vehicles is already quite costly, and adding a two-speed transmission is typically reserved for sports and higher-end models.
Sacrificing Maximum Speed of Electric Vehicles to Extend Range
Batteries are one of the most expensive components of electric vehicles, and battery capacity determines how far the vehicle can travel. Therefore, electric vehicle manufacturers are seeking every possible way to optimize battery efficiency, and one method is to limit the maximum speed of the vehicle.
Many might be surprised to learn that electric vehicles can produce much higher power than necessary for normal driving speeds. However, using this full power to achieve high speeds would drain the battery very quickly. Additionally, limiting speed also helps minimize the risk of accidents, especially on narrow or crowded roads.
Speed limitations may also leave some users feeling disappointed. Some people enjoy the thrill of driving at high speeds and may fear that purchasing an electric vehicle will force them to sacrifice “the thrill of speed.” However, it’s important to note that the maximum speed of electric vehicles today still exceeds the speed limits allowed on most roads. Thus, for most users, speed limitations do not significantly affect the driving experience.
Moreover, with advancements in battery technology, the capacity of electric vehicle batteries is continuously improving. In the future, as batteries can store more energy, speed limitations may no longer be necessary.
Weight is crucial in achieving higher maximum speeds. (Illustrative image).
Like Traditional Fuel Vehicles, Electric Cars Must Consider Weight
Similar to any type of vehicle, weight plays a critical role in achieving higher maximum speeds. Colin Chapman, the founder of Lotus Cars, famously said: “Simplify, then add lightness.” This design philosophy is the reason why all automakers strive to minimize the weight of their vehicles.
However, for electric vehicles, weight becomes even more important. While one might think that electric vehicles would be lighter due to the absence of a bulky engine, they are actually heavier than internal combustion engine vehicles because of the battery.
In fact, to increase speed and achieve higher maximum speeds, automakers must choose between increasing power or reducing weight. However, increasing power often means increasing weight, and for electric vehicles, this entails adding heavier batteries.
