The electric vehicle (EV) sector is experiencing exponential growth, driven by the global push for sustainability, stricter environmental regulations, and continuous innovation in battery technology. In this context, transmission systems are undergoing an evolution to meet the specific requirements of electric propulsion, focusing on efficiency, durability, and compact design.
Why Are Transmissions Still Important in Electric Vehicles?
While traditional internal combustion engines require complex multi-speed transmissions, electric motors generate maximum torque instantly and operate efficiently over a wide range of speeds. However, this does not eliminate the need for transmission components in electric vehicles — rather, it changes their function and design.
Transmission systems in EVs are essential for:
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Optimizing energy efficiency
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Improving vehicle dynamics and comfort
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Reducing weight and mechanical losses
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Integrating electric drive units in compact formats
Types of Transmissions for EVs
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Single-Speed Gearboxes
The most common solution in EVs. These systems are simple, reliable, and optimized to work with the electric motor’s characteristics. High-efficiency ball and roller bearings are essential to minimize friction. -
Two-Speed Transmissions
Less common, but used in some high-performance or heavy-duty vehicles to improve acceleration and high-speed efficiency. This configuration requires precise components and optimized lubrication systems. -
Planetary Gear Sets
These systems offer high torque density and compact size, ideal for electric axles and integrated electric drive units. -
Differentials and Power Dividers
In all-wheel-drive EVs, advanced differentials are used to balance torque between front and rear axles, requiring robust and precise components like high-performance tapered roller bearings.
Innovative Components in EV Transmissions
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High-Efficiency Bearings (Ball, Needle, Tapered Roller)
Reduce friction and increase the durability of electric powertrains. -
Sealing Systems and Gaskets
Essential for thermal and contamination protection in high-speed and high-temperature environments. -
Lightweight Transmission Housings
Often made of aluminum or composite materials to reduce overall vehicle weight. -
Advanced Lubricants
Specifically designed to withstand high temperatures and rotational speeds typical of electric motors.
Future Trends
The growing demand for electric vehicles will continue to push the evolution of power transmission systems toward more integrated, modular, and intelligent architectures. This includes the development of:
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Smart transmissions with sensors and real-time data for predictive maintenance
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Lubrication systems with low environmental impact
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Custom solutions for electric commercial vehicles and last-mile mobility
Cuscinetti & Componenti: Partner for the Electric Revolution
Cuscinetti & Componenti supports the electric mobility industry with a wide range of bearings, gaskets, lubricants, and mechanical components suitable for electric vehicle transmissions. Thanks to our experience and partnerships with the most innovative brands on the market, we offer reliable solutions that meet the highest performance and sustainability requirements.
🔧 Contact us for technical support or to request a quote for your EV transmission components!
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Transmissions for Electric Vehicles: New Solutions for a Growing Market
The electric vehicle (EV) sector is experiencing exponential growth, driven by global sustainability goals, stricter environmental regulations, and continuous innovation in battery technology. In this context, transmission systems are evolving to meet the specific needs of electric propulsion—focusing on efficiency, durability, and compact design.
Why Are Transmissions Still Essential in Electric Vehicles?
Although traditional internal combustion engines require complex multi-speed transmissions, electric motors deliver maximum torque instantly and maintain efficiency across a broad speed range. This doesn’t eliminate the need for transmissions in EVs—it redefines their role and design.
EV transmissions are key for:
-
Maximizing energy efficiency
-
Enhancing driving dynamics and comfort
-
Reducing weight and mechanical losses
-
Integrating compact electric drive units
Types of EV Transmissions
-
Single-Speed Gearboxes
Most EVs use these. They are simple, reliable, and optimized for electric motors. High-efficiency ball and roller bearings help reduce friction. -
Two-Speed Transmissions
Found in some high-performance or heavy-duty EVs to improve acceleration and efficiency at higher speeds. These systems require precision components and optimized lubrication. -
Planetary Gear Sets
Known for their compact size and torque density, ideal for e-axles and integrated drive units. -
Differentials and Torque Splitters
In AWD electric vehicles, advanced differentials balance torque between axles, demanding robust, high-performance tapered roller bearings.
Key Components for Modern EV Transmissions
-
High-Efficiency Bearings (Ball, Needle, Tapered Roller)
Essential to reduce friction and extend the lifespan of electric drivetrains. -
Sealing Systems and Gaskets
Protect against thermal stress and contamination in high-speed applications. -
Lightweight Transmission Casings
Typically made of aluminum or composite materials to reduce vehicle weight. -
Advanced Lubricants
Engineered for high-speed, high-temperature conditions common in electric motors.
Future Trends in EV Powertrain Systems
As EV adoption grows, transmission systems will continue evolving toward more integrated, modular, and intelligent solutions, such as:
-
Smart transmissions with sensor technology for predictive maintenance
-
Eco-friendly lubrication systems
-
Custom solutions for electric commercial and last-mile mobility vehicles
Eurobearing: Your Trusted Partner for Electric Vehicle Innovation
Eurobearing supports the electric mobility sector with a wide range of bearings, seals, lubricants, and power transmission components tailored for EVs. Thanks to our experience and partnerships with cutting-edge manufacturers, we provide reliable, high-performance solutions that meet modern mobility and sustainability standards.
🔧 Need support or a custom quote for EV drivetrain components? Contact the Eurobearing team today!