As the automotive industry rapidly transitions toward electrification and intelligent systems, the number of motors integrated into vehicles is growing at an unprecedented rate. In some electric vehicles (EVs), the number of motors can exceed 200. This article explores the various applications of motors in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and modern EVs, highlighting how these components impact vehicle performance, safety, and comfort.

1. Motors in Closure Systems

Closure systems in vehicles rely on numerous motors to function effectively. These systems include power windows, sunroof drives, electric tailgate struts, tailgate latches, door lock actuators, door assist mechanisms, and retractable door handles. For example, each window requires one motor, while sunroofs, tailgates, door locks, and handles need additional motors. These applications alone may require around 16 motors. Most of the motors used in closure systems today are brushed DC motors.

2. Motors in Powertrains

Motors are integral to a vehicle's powertrain, especially in automatic clutches and dual-clutch transmissions, where they perform various functions, including torque generation and hydraulic pump operation. ICE vehicles typically use motors for high-torque applications in transmissions and electronic parking locks. For EVs, while motors are primarily needed for electronic parking locks, some manufacturers have begun using brushless DC (BLDC) motors to enhance efficiency and durability in these applications.

3. Motors in Engine Management Systems

To meet increasing demands for fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and improved vehicle performance, ICE vehicles integrate motors into various engine management applications. These include turbochargers, fuel pumps, electronic throttle control, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and after-treatment systems.

Key components reliant on motors include:

1.Turbocharger motors

2.Electronic throttle control motors

3.Exhaust control motors

4.High-torque turbo wastegate actuators

5.Electronic variable valve timing (eVVT) actuators

6.Metering pumps for exhaust after-treatment fluids

In addition, ICE engines use motors for fuel pumps, air pumps, electric coolant pumps, and cooling fans, which are essential for maintaining optimal engine performance and efficiency.

For EVs, the most critical motors are the main drive motors. Most small EVs use a single motor for propulsion, while high-end models may have dual motors—one at the front and one at the rear—for all-wheel drive. Some vehicles, such as the Roewe Marvel X and Tesla Model S Plaid, employ three drive motors for enhanced performance. Others, like the BYD Yangwang U8, use four hub motors—one for each wheel—delivering exceptional control and power distribution.

High-performance EVs, particularly those designed for racing, can use even more drive motors. For example, the Ford Mustang Mach-E 1400 features a seven-motor setup (three at the front and four at the rear) to deliver over 1,400 horsepower.

4. Motors in Smart Cabins

Modern vehicles leverage motors in smart cabins to enhance comfort and convenience. In economy vehicles, motors enable basic seat adjustments, such as forward/backward movement and seatback tilt. In luxury cars, motors also adjust seat height, cushion tilt, lumbar support, headrests, and cushion stability.

Other motor-driven functions include:

1.Electric seat folding

2.Powered rear seat adjustments

3.Ventilation fans within seats for heating and cooling

4.Massage features in high-end models

Depending on the vehicle configuration, the number of motors in a smart cabin can range from 5 to 21. These include:

1.Seat belt pre-tensioners (5 motors)

2.Driver alert actuators (1 motor)

3.Headrest adjustments (2 motors)

4.Folding screens (2 motors)

5.Seat adjustments (2–10 motors)

6.Touchscreen vibration feedback (1 motor)

5. Motors in Steering and Chassis Systems

Steering and chassis systems rely on motors for precise control and enhanced safety. Key applications include:

1).Steering column adjustments

2).Electronic parking brakes

3).Brake boosters

4).Electric power steering (EPS)

5).Electronic stability control (ESC)

6).Anti-lock braking systems (ABS)

7).Pedal adjusters

EPS, in particular, is a critical system in modern vehicles. It uses motors to generate assistive torque, making it easier for drivers to maneuver the wheels. Compared to traditional hydraulic systems, EPS motors operate at lower speeds and require precise torque control, especially at near-zero speeds.

Additionally, BLDC motor-powered electric brake boosters are becoming increasingly common, reducing the effort required to apply brakes and enhancing driver comfort and safety.

6. Motors in Thermal Management Systems

With increasing demands for fuel efficiency and low emissions in ICE vehicles and the rapid growth of hybrid and electric vehicles, the need for more efficient and intelligent cooling systems has risen.

Motors play a crucial role in thermal management systems, including:

i.Engine cooling

ii.Battery cooling

iii.Cabin heating

Other motor applications in this area include active grille shutters, which reduce drag at high speeds and help engines warm up faster.

7. Motors in Vision Systems

Modern vehicles rely on motors for various vision-related components, such as lighting, mirrors, cameras, and sensors. One of the most common motor applications in this domain is the windshield wiper system. Each vehicle typically requires at least one motor for the front windshield wipers. SUVs and hatchbacks often include rear-window wipers, which require additional motors.

Other vision-related motor applications include:

1.Windshield washer pumps

2.Headlight washer pumps (in high-end models)

3.Cooling fans for LED headlights

4.Motors for electrically adjustable side mirrors

5.Motors to drive sensors, such as cameras, LiDAR, and radar systems

Conclusion

Today, the number of motors in a vehicle ranges from 10 in basic models to over 200 in highly equipped EVs. These motors, costing $30–$50 each, play vital roles in improving efficiency, safety, and driver comfort. Specialized motors, such as those in EPS systems, can be significantly more expensive.

As automotive technology continues to advance, the role of motors will only grow, driving innovations in efficiency, safety, and comfort across the industry.