The distinction between single motor and dual motor in new energy vehicles is akin to the difference between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive in conventional fuel vehicles. In terms of handling and power performance, dual motors generally outperform single motors. However, correspondingly, dual motors consume considerably more energy, so many dual-motor new energy vehicles opt for single-motor drive in typical usage scenarios.
The primary advantages of a single motor over a dual motor are more associated with cost reduction for the vehicle. In the current dichotomous environment of new energy vehicles, it is evident that affordable low-end electric commuter vehicles invariably feature a single motor, while the opportunity to encounter dual motors is more likely in mid-range to high-end electric vehicles priced between two to three hundred thousand.
Nevertheless, dual motors have strong advantages, particularly in the following two aspects:
Enhanced Safety with Dual Motors:
Dual motors imply four-wheel drive, providing stronger traction and inherently better safety during driving. Moreover, this four-wheel drive is achieved directly through motor-driven means, eliminating the need for traditional power transmission systems found in conventional fuel vehicles. As a result, response times are faster. For instance, during high-speed travel and loss of control, the electronic stability system in a conventional vehicle must coordinate the operation of multiple components, including brakes, engine output, and four-wheel drive differential lock, taking about 0.4 seconds to restore stability. In contrast, a new energy vehicle with dual motors may only require control of motor output and braking, and given the rapid power adjustment capabilities of motors, the entire process might take only 0.05 seconds. At a speed of 120 km/h, this time difference equates to a displacement difference of over 10 meters.
Support for Advanced Autonomous Driving Systems:
Undoubtedly, the foundation of advanced autonomous driving systems lies in the precise control of the vehicle by electronic systems. Single-motor vehicle models, to adapt to diverse scenarios, typically equip a high-power motor. However, the precision of this motor at low speeds is not as good as that of dual motors. Although the shortcomings may not be very apparent at the current level of autonomous driving systems, as these systems advance to levels L5 and L6 in the future, the disadvantages of single motors in this regard will become more pronounced.
In summary, due to price advantages, single-motor new energy vehicles are currently more popular than dual-motor ones. However, considering the development trend of new energy vehicles, dual motors are likely to become the mainstream in the future.
