Hedhvick Hirav
Hedhvick Hirav is a dedicated EV researcher and editor with over 4 years of experience in India’s growing electric vehicle ecosystem. Their contributions have been recognized in leading sustainability publications and automotive journals.
Transmission in Electric Vehicles: 2025 Guide, Data, and Insights
When discussing transmission in electric vehicles (EVs), it’s essential to understand how this crucial component differs from traditional cars—and why it matters as EV adoption soars in 2025. Unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles that rely on complex multi-speed gearboxes, most electric vehicles use simplified single-speed transmissions. This shift is driving major changes in vehicle efficiency, maintenance, and driving experience. Backed by the latest data from industry reports and government sources, this guide explores what transmission in electric vehicles means today, its role in India’s EV revolution, adoption trends, real-world performance, pros and cons, and what the future holds.
What Is Transmission in Electric Vehicles?
A transmission—also known as a gearbox—manages how power from a vehicle’s engine or motor is delivered to the wheels. In traditional petrol or diesel cars, transmissions have multiple gears to accommodate varying engine speeds and torque demands.
How Does Transmission Work in Electric Vehicles?
In electric vehicles, the setup is much simpler:
- Most EVs use a single-speed transmission, thanks to electric motors’ ability to deliver instant torque across a wide range of speeds.
- The transmission transfers rotational force (torque) from the electric motor directly to the wheels with minimal losses.
- Some high-performance or commercial EVs may use two-speed or multi-speed gearboxes for specialised needs.
According to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) 2024 report, over 96% of passenger EVs sold in India use single-speed transmissions.
Why Is Transmission Important in Electric Vehicles in 2025?
What Makes EV Transmissions Different From ICE Cars?
- Simplicity: Fewer moving parts mean reduced wear and lower maintenance costs.
- Efficiency: Single-speed gearboxes allow for smoother acceleration and less energy loss.
- Performance: Instant torque delivery gives EVs rapid acceleration from a standstill.
With India targeting 30% EV penetration by 2030 (NITI Aayog, 2024), understanding these differences is vital for buyers, manufacturers, and policy makers alike.
Key Trends: Adoption Rates & Market Growth
How Fast Are Electric Vehicle Transmissions Being Adopted in India?
According to the Ministry of Heavy Industries’ e-Mobility Dashboard (2024):
| Year | Total EV Sales (India) | % with Single-Speed Transmission | % with Multi-Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 7.3 lakh | 94% | 6% |
| 2023 | 13.5 lakh | 96% | 4% |
| 2024* | 19.8 lakh | 97% | 3% |
*Projected as per Q1–Q2 trend
Statista’s Global EV Market Outlook (2025) forecasts that nearly all mass-market EVs sold worldwide will continue using single-speed gearboxes through at least 2030.
Why Are Single-Speed Transmissions Dominant?
- Lower manufacturing cost
- Reduced complexity
- Compatibility with most driving scenarios
- Improved reliability
Transmission Types in Electric Vehicles: Overview
What Types of Transmissions Are Used in Modern EVs?
1. Single-Speed Reduction Gear
- Standard for most passenger EVs
- Fixed gear ratio optimised for city and highway speeds
2. Two-Speed or Multi-Speed Transmissions
Used mainly in:
- High-performance sports EVs
- Heavy-duty commercial applications (e.g., buses)
Example: A leading German automaker introduced a two-speed gearbox for its high-end electric sedan in late 2023 to improve top speed without sacrificing acceleration.
Comparative Table: Transmission Types by Segment (India, FY24)
| Vehicle Type | % Using Single-Speed | % Using Multi-Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | 97% | 3% |
| Electric Buses | 85% | 15% |
| Commercial Vans | 92% | 8% |
| Two-Wheelers/Three-Wheelers | >99% | <1% |
Source: FADA India Market Study Q1–Q2 FY24
How Do Transmissions Impact Performance & Efficiency?
Does an Electric Vehicle’s Transmission Affect Its Range?
Yes—but not as dramatically as in ICE vehicles.
- Single-speed setups are engineered for peak efficiency at typical Indian driving speeds (40–80 km/h).
- Multi-speed transmissions can slightly improve highway range and top speed but add weight/complexity.
Case Study: Range Comparison by Transmission Type
A recent analysis by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) found:
- A mid-sized sedan with a two-speed gearbox achieved a 7–9% higher range on highways compared to its single-speed counterpart.
- However, city mileage remained nearly identical due to frequent stops/starts where instant torque is more beneficial than gearing.
Pros & Cons of Different Transmission Approaches
What Are the Advantages of Single-Speed Transmissions?
Pros:
- Fewer parts = lower risk of mechanical failure
- Cheaper servicing and fewer breakdowns
- Smoother ride quality; no gear-shift lag
- Simpler manufacturing reduces vehicle cost by ₹20,000–₹40,000 on average (FICCI Auto Report, Feb 2024)
Cons:
- Limited top speed potential versus multi-speed setups
- Slightly less efficient at sustained high speeds (>120 km/h)
Are There Any Drawbacks to Multi-Speed Gearboxes?
While rare in mainstream Indian EVs,
Cons include:
- More moving parts = higher maintenance cost
- Increased complexity can negate some efficiency gains at urban speeds
- Slightly higher upfront vehicle price
Real Examples & Case Studies
How Are Leading Automakers Handling Transmission Choices?
Case Example #1:
A top Indian manufacturer’s best-selling compact SUV uses a single reduction gear transmission. Owners reported annual maintenance costs dropping by over 25% compared to its ICE variant, primarily due to simpler drivetrain components (Company Service Data Q3 FY24).
Case Example #2:
A luxury European brand tested two versions of its flagship electric sedan—one with a single-speed unit and one with a two-speed gearbox—in Bengaluru traffic simulations:
- Both versions performed similarly up to urban speeds.
- The two-speed model offered 10 km greater range on highway runs but required more frequent servicing due to added mechanical complexity.
Industry Benchmarks & Cost Savings
How Much Do Consumers Save With Simpler Transmissions?
According to the SIAM-EY Automotive Cost Survey (Jan–Mar 2024):
| Component | Avg Maintenance Cost/Year – ICE Car (₹) | Avg Maintenance Cost/Year – Mainstream EV (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission/Gearbox | ₹10,500 | ₹3,100 |
| Clutch Assembly | ₹7,800 | N/A |
EV owners save approximately 70–75% per year on transmission-related servicing versus petrol/diesel car owners.
Insurance Implications: Claim Settlement & Pricing Trends
Does an EV’s Simple Transmission Affect Insurance Premiums or Claims?
As per IRDAI Annual Report (2023–24):
“Electric vehicles exhibit lower frequency of mechanical transmission-related claims compared with conventional vehicles.”
Claim Settlement Ratio (CSR) Comparison Table — FY23/FY24
| Insurer Name | CSR – ICE Vehicles (%) | CSR – Electric Vehicles (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Public Sector Avg. | 98.1 | 98.9 |
| Private Sector Avg. | 96.8 | 97.6 |
Insurers attribute marginally higher CSRs for EVs partly to their simplified drivetrains.
Premium Growth Trends – Motor Insurance Segment
According to IRDAI Q2 FY25 update:
- Motor insurance premiums for pure-electric cars grew at a CAGR of 38% between FY22–FY24, tracking overall sales growth.
- Average premiums remain slightly lower (<12%) than comparable ICE models due to reduced risk profiles.
Consumer Insights & Practical Considerations
What Should Indian Buyers Know About Transmissions When Choosing an EV?
Key Factors:
- If your driving is mostly urban/city-based—a single-speed gearbox is ideal.
- For frequent long-distance highway travel at sustained high speeds—consider models offering multi-speed options.
- Lower routine maintenance bills are a core benefit across all mainstream Indian EV models.
- Insurance premiums are generally favourable due to fewer mechanical claims related to transmissions.
Future Outlook: Where Is EV Transmission Tech Heading by Late Decade?
Will We See More Advanced Gearboxes In Mass-Market Indian EVs By 2030?
Industry experts predict:
- For most consumers—single/reduction gear setups will remain standard due to cost-efficiency.
- As battery technologies improve and demand grows for high-performance/luxury segments,
- Expect gradual adoption of advanced multi-speed e-transmissions,
- Especially for sports cars or heavy-duty commercial applications needing both quick acceleration and high top speed/range.
Emerging Technologies To Watch:
- Intelligent electronically controlled transmissions that adapt ratios based on terrain/driving style.
- Integration with regenerative braking systems for enhanced efficiency.
- Modular designs allowing easy upgrades/replacements—lowering total cost of ownership further.
According to KPMG’s “India Automotive Tech Trends” survey (April 2025), over 72% of auto executives expect next-gen smart transmissions will play “a key role” only after widespread charging infrastructure matures post–2030.
Quick Recap: Key Stats & Takeaways on Transmission in Electric Vehicles
- Over 96–97% of new Indian passenger EVs feature single-speed transmissions as of mid-2024.
- Maintenance costs are typically 70–75% lower than ICE car gearboxes (SIAM-EY Survey).
- Claim settlement ratios for insured electric vehicles are marginally higher than ICE vehicles (IRDAI Annual Report).
- Multi-speed gearboxes are mainly used by premium/luxury/high-performance models (<5% market share).
- Tech advances expected post–2030 as battery tech and consumer needs evolve further.
People Also Ask — FAQs on Transmission In Electric Vehicles
Q1: Do all electric vehicles have no gears?
Most passenger EVs use just one fixed gear (“single speed”), but some premium/sports models offer multi-speed transmissions for performance reasons.
Q2: Why don’t electric cars need multiple gears like petrol/diesel cars?
Electric motors deliver maximum torque instantly across a broad speed range—eliminating the need for complex multi-ratio gearboxes used by ICE engines.
Q3: Will having fewer gears affect my car’s performance or range?
For typical city/highway usage in India, single-speeds work efficiently; only specialised needs see benefits from extra gears at sustained high speeds.
Q4: Are transmission repairs cheaper on an electric car?
Yes! On average, annual transmission-related maintenance costs are 70–75% lower than equivalent petrol/diesel models due to fewer moving parts (SIAM-EY Survey).
Q5: Does the type of transmission influence my insurance premium?
Simpler transmissions can reduce mechanical claim rates slightly; however, insurers set premiums based on overall risk profile—including battery value and accident rates (IRDAI Q2 FY25 update).
Q6: Is it possible future mass-market Indian EVs will get more advanced transmissions?
Possible—but only after technology matures further post–2030; currently most buyers benefit from simple single-speeds due to reliability/cost-effectiveness (KPMG Tech Trends April 2025).
Ready to explore India’s latest lineup of cutting-edge electric vehicles? Compare features—including drivetrain tech—and consult trusted dealers or certified experts before making your choice! For more data-backed insights on buying or insuring your next vehicle confidently, reach out now—or bookmark this page for regular updates as the market evolves!