Motors play important EV roles

Though lithium-ion batteries grab much of the spotlight improved electric motor technology is crucial in advancing the operation of battery, hybrid, and plug-in electric vehicles.

While battery technology development has attracted most of the attention as automakers prepare for mass production of electrically propelled vehicles, the design of electric motors is also rapidly advancing as manufacturers learn more about electric propulsion.

The need for greater energy density in the batteries is seen as a make-or-break hurdle for making plug-in hybrids, battery electrics, and electrics with range-extending generators practical. But engineers still have room to improve motor packaging, weight, cost, and NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) characteristics.