The motor is the core component of electric vehicles and electric tricycles. A well-matched motor delivers strong power, excellent climbing performance, stable mileage and low failure rates. An improper choice will lead to high power consumption, short driving range, and even damage to the controller and motor. This guide shares practical tips for buyers, vehicle manufacturers and distributors to pick ideal motors.
1. Confirm Application Scenarios First
Select motors according to load, road conditions and usage:
Urban commuter vehicles (light load, flat roads): 48V 350–400W brushless motor
Household tricycles (occasional climbing, passenger carrying): 60V 500–800W geared brushless motor
Cargo tricycles & mountain area use (heavy load, frequent climbing): 72V 1000–1500W geared brushless / permanent magnet synchronous motor
High-speed vehicles (delivery & long-distance travel): 72V 1200W+ high-efficiency brushless motor
Rule of thumb: Power determines speed, torque decides climbing and load capacity.
2. Motor Types: Main Differences & Recommendations
Brushed Motor
Advantages: Low cost, simple structure, universal controllers
Disadvantages: Short service life, carbon brush wear, high heat generation and low efficiency (around 70%)
Application: Low-speed budget vehicles; not recommended for export and high-quality orders
Brushless DC Motor (BLDC) – Mainstream Choice
Advantages: Long service life (3–5 years+), high efficiency (85%–92%), low power consumption, low noise and maintenance-free
Disadvantages: Slightly higher price, needs matched controllers
Application: Standard electric vehicles, tricycles and export products
Geared Motor vs Direct Drive Motor
Geared (reduction) motor: High torque, outstanding climbing and load-bearing capacity. Ideal for cargo tricycles and mountain areas.
Direct drive hub motor: Simple structure, energy-saving and quiet on flat roads. Perfect for light-duty two-wheel vehicles.
3. Key Technical Parameters to Check
Voltage (V)
Voltage must be consistent among motor, battery and controller, otherwise components will be burned out.
48V: Short-distance & light-duty use
60V: Most universal, balanced power and range
72V: Strong power and high speed, suitable for heavy load
Power (W)
350–400W: Daily commuting
500–800W: General use for passenger and light cargo
1000–1500W: Cargo tricycles and climbing roads
2000W+: Heavy-duty tricycles
Note: Excessively high power causes faster power drain and higher costs.
Torque (N·m)
30–50 N·m: Flat road driving
60–120 N·m+: Required for climbing and heavy loads (geared motors feature higher torque)
Rotational Speed (RPM)
Low speed (300–500 RPM): High torque, good for climbing
High speed (800–1200 RPM): Fast running speed for flat roads
Ingress Protection (IP Rating)
IP54 / IP65 is recommended. It provides good dustproof and waterproof performance for outdoor use.
4. Material & Workmanship (Durability Standards)
Magnet steel: Grade 45#–50# high-performance magnet steel, anti-demagnetization and stable power output
Winding: Pure copper winding, low heat generation and long lifespan (aluminum winding is not recommended)
Housing: Thick die-cast aluminum shell, excellent heat dissipation and deformation resistance
5. Reliable Brands for Bulk & Export Purchase
We recommend well-known brands with stable quality and low after-sales issues:
Jin Yuxing: Cost-effective, widely used on tricycles and export goods
Quan Shun: Strong power and good heat dissipation, popular for delivery vehicles
Jiu Zhou: Established manufacturer, stable quality for complete vehicle supporting
Avoid unknown no-brand motors, which have high failure rates and bring lots of after-sales troubles.
6. Quick Selection Reference
Urban two-wheeler: 48V 400W brushless direct drive motor
Household tricycle: 60V 800W geared brushless motor
Cargo & mountain tricycle: 72V 1200W geared brushless / PMS motor
High-speed delivery vehicle: 72V 1500W high-efficiency brushless motor
7. Common Misconceptions
Higher power means better performance
Wrong. Overpowered motors consume more electricity. Always match power to actual usage.
Higher rotational speed equals stronger climbing ability
Wrong. Torque, not speed, is the key for climbing and loading.
Brushed motors are better for lower cost
Wrong. Brushless motors have 3–5 times longer service life, saving maintenance cost in the long run.
Conclusion
When choosing a motor, prioritize matching with application scenarios, standard parameters and reliable quality. For global buyers and vehicle manufacturers, brushless motor with pure copper winding, high-grade magnet steel and IP65 rating is always the safest and most cost-effective choice.
Related Parts & Guides
Learn more about matching components for electric vehicles and tricycles:
Electric Vehicle Controller