Short answer: Which wheels receive power from the motor(s), affecting traction, efficiency, and performance.
Explanation
Drivetrain describes how many motors your EV has and which wheels they power. Front-wheel drive (FWD) uses one motor on the front axle. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) uses one motor on the rear axle. All-wheel drive (AWD) uses two motors, one on each axle, with no physical connection between them.
Drivetrain choice affects efficiency, performance, and traction. Single-motor variants (FWD or RWD) are generally more efficient because they have less weight and fewer components creating friction. AWD models offer better traction in snow and rain, plus faster acceleration since both axles can push. But AWD typically uses 5-15% more energy than a single-motor version of the same car.
For EV drivers, one notable difference from petrol cars is that AWD does not reduce ground clearance or add weight through a driveshaft. EV AWD simply adds a second motor to the other axle. Many AWD EVs can also deactivate one motor during cruising to save energy, only engaging both motors when traction or acceleration demand it.
Where you'll see this
- In vehicle specifications
Common confusion
Some people think AWD always means better. For EV efficiency, single-motor (usually RWD) is often the better choice unless you frequently drive in snow or need the extra traction. AWD adds weight and reduces range.
Example
The Tesla Model 3 RWD uses about 145 Wh/km. The AWD version of the same car uses about 155 Wh/km, roughly 7% more energy for the added traction.
Related terms
See a term you don't recognize? Scan it.
Point your phone at any charger screen. Coming soon.
Stuck at the charger? Open the app.
Step-by-step help for real charging problems. Log the experience. Free on iOS and Android.
Free to download · Available on iOS and Android