Do Electric Cars Have Transmissions?

The popularity of electric vehicles among Lawrence, KS Mercedes-Benz shoppers continues to surge, thanks to the many financial and ecological benefits they provide. One of the lesser-known benefits of electric vehicles is that they are less expensive to maintain. Unlike conventional vehicles with internal combustion engines and transmissions that demand regular upkeep to operate smoothly, electric cars offer a more streamlined maintenance experience due to their fewer moving parts.

A common question we receive at Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City from prospective EV buyers is, “Do electric cars have transmissions?” Yes, there are electric car transmissions, but they aren’t the same ones that are found on internal combustion engine vehicles. If you’re curious about the mechanics and gears on electric cars, Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City goes over everything you need to know about electric car transmissions in the guide below!

How Many Gears Are on Electric Cars?

Electric car transmissions differ significantly from the transmissions typically found in traditional vehicles. This is because electric motors can deliver nearly instantaneous torque, a characteristic internal combustion engines do not have. As a result, you do not have to rev up the engine to achieve peak power during your St. Louis, MO joyrides.

So, what does this mean for the gears on electric cars? Unlike traditional vehicles, most electric car transmissions only have a single gear. This simple design is beneficial as it gives EV drivers the ability to tap into the full power of their vehicle the moment they press the accelerator. Here’s a breakdown of how electric car transmissions work:

1. When you press the accelerator, electricity flows from the battery to the electric motor. As the motor spins, it also drives the gearbox, which is known as the transmission in an electric vehicle.
2. With the electric motor and gearbox in motion, your EV begins to move forward. Remarkably, some electric motors can rotate at speeds of up to 20,000 rpm, in stark contrast to the typical internal combustion engine’s limit of 7,000 rpm.
3. When you shift your electric vehicle into reverse, the electric motor essentially reverses its rotation. This contrasts with standard vehicles, where a separate gear in the transmission is responsible for enabling reverse motion.

Discover the Power of Mercedes-Benz Electric in Merriam!

Now you know the answer to “Do electric cars have transmissions,” are you ready to take the first step in bringing home an all-electric Mercedes-Benz vehicle, like the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV? Let the team at Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City help you make the transition to electric as smooth as possible by finding your best fit EV. Take a look at our current selection of new electric vehicles for sale near Wichita, KS, then call us at to schedule a test drive or to learn more about Mercedes-Benz Electric.