How Do Electric Cars Work? — Inside the EV Powertrain Revolution

Introduction The question “How do electric cars work” captures much of the fascination around the electric vehicle (EV) revolution. As automakers and governments push forward with electrification, understanding the underlying mechanics—from battery systems to electric motors, from power electronics to regenerative braking—is key for consumers, engineers, and policy makers alike. In this article, we demystify how electric cars work, outline the advantages and challenges of electric vehicle mechanics, and look at where innovations are headed in the EV powertrain space. I. Fundamental Architecture: Battery, Inverter & Motor 1.1 Battery Packs: The Heart of the System When asking “How do electric cars work”, the battery is often the first component that […]