Is a transmission required on EVs? If so would a CVT from a snowmobile offer an advantage?
Hi, Jim -
No, you don't actually need a transmission for an EV. Usually, however, this means using a larger motor and controller, which costs money and weight.
CVTs, continually variable transmissions, offer a perhaps cost effective alternative to the beefier motor and controller usually required in the transmission-less conversion. Read this excellent discussion in the EVDL for Lee Hart's breakdown on electric car transmissions and CVTs.
