Are electric cars automatic?

Are electric cars automatic?

In this guide, we’ll cover:

Do electric cars have gears?
Can you get a manual electric car?
What are the benefits of an automatic EV?
Automatic electric car FAQs
Are you ready for an electric car?

Do electric cars have gears?
Can you get a manual electric car?

Do electric cars have gears?

The majority of electric cars do not have traditional ‘gears’ or a gearbox. While traditional diesel or petrol vehicles rely on a combustion engine and gearboxes to build up power and rev the engine, EVs use an electric motor that provides smooth, uninterrupted acceleration without the need for manual gear changes.

A non-electric, manual car will typically have five or six gears selected by the driver to control the amount of power the engine sends to the wheels. In contrast, the amount of power an electric engine produces, and how fast the car goes as a result, depends on how heavily you push the accelerator pedal.

Can you get a manual electric car?

Fully electric cars are almost entirely automatic, with rare exceptions. Put simply, EVs don’t require a gearbox, and provide a smooth driving experience with instant torque.

Automatic EVs offer a more relaxed way of driving. While some drivers may crave the hands-on feel of constant gear changes, others find that the automatic nature of electric cars makes their everyday errands much smoother.

Smoother driving experience

Driving an EV should feel effortless. Simply press the accelerator and go. This makes electric cars ideal for start-stop traffic in urban environments, and a continuously smooth performance on long journeys.

More efficiencies

Electric vehicles are designed for efficient energy usage, so you get the most range from every charge. No shifting gears also means power delivery is more consistent as you drive, so your car can perform efficiently across a wide range of speeds.

Lower maintenance costs

While this can vary, many EV drivers find that their vehicles generally require less routine maintenance. This is because they generally have fewer moving parts than the traditional combustion engine you’d find in a petrol or diesel car.

With no gearbox or clutch to check up on and no transmission fluid to refresh over time, EVs can help to reduce long-term servicing costs without sacrificing performance.

Automatic electric car FAQs

In a traditional petrol or diesel car, a gearbox and clutch manage gear changes and engine power. Drivers have to change gears manually, which can make the driving experience feel clunkier than with an automatic. In contrast, electric cars use an accelerator and electric motor, delivering torque across a wide range of speeds without the need for a gearbox or clutch pedal.

In 2035, there will be restrictions on the sale of petrol and diesel cars, meaning 90% of cars sold must be zero-emission. While manual cars already on the road will still be allowed, these restrictions will make automatic vehicles increasingly common.

Yes, because most EV cars are automatic, you can drive them with either an automatic or a manual licence. For new drivers who only hold an automatic licence, EVs are an accessible way to introduce themselves to the road without ever worrying about manual gear changes.

Are you ready for an electric car?

With their efficient performance, EVs can make your everyday routine simpler. No clutch, gear changes, or loud combustion engine noises as you drive means you can enjoy less stress and smoother driving overall. With automatic driving as a standard, almost instant acceleration, and reduced maintenance costs compared to a traditional combustion engine, an electric car can make your daily life more efficient in the long-term.

If you’re looking for your ideal electric car, explore Hyundai’s full range of electric cars, like thestreamlined IONIQ 6, the compact INSTER, or the spacious IONIQ 9.

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