What Size RC Electric Motor Do I Need? Details Here!

Last Updated on March 17, 2023 by

Are you ready to rev up your RC car performance and leave your competition in the dust? One of the most important factors in achieving this is selecting the right size electric motor. But with so many different motor sizes and types available, deciding which one is best for your vehicle can be overwhelming.

In this blog, we will guide you through the process of selecting the perfect RC electric motor size to unlock your car’s full potential. Whether you’re a seasoned RC enthusiast or just starting out, this guide will help you make an informed decision and dominate the competition.

So let’s dive in and take your RC experience to the next level!

Understanding Electric Motor Sizes

When it comes to selecting the right size electric motor for your RC car, understanding the various metrics used to determine the motor size and performance is essential.

As an experienced RC enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of experience with different motor sizes and learned the importance of choosing the right one to achieve optimal performance.

Here are some important things to consider when sizing an electric motor:

1. Kv rating: This is the motor’s constant velocity rating, which measures how many revolutions per minute (RPM) the motor will spin per volt supplied. The higher the Kv rating, the faster the motor spins and the more power it consumes.

2. Wattage: This is a measure of the motor’s power output. The higher the wattage, the more power the motor can produce and the faster the car can go. It is essential to select a motor that can handle the power needs of your vehicle without overloading or overheating.

3. Torque: It is the force that can turn the wheels of a motor vehicle. The higher the torque, the more power the motor can exert, which can be beneficial for hill climbing or off-road driving.

4. Efficiency: A measure of how efficiently the motor can convert electrical energy into mechanical energy. A more efficient motor will use less power and run cooler, which can improve overall performance and longevity.

From my personal experience, understanding these metrics can help you make an informed decision when selecting an electric motor size for your RC car.

It is important to consider the weight and size of your vehicle, as well as your preferred terrain and driving style.

For example, a heavy vehicle or one driven over rough terrain may require a motor with higher torque or wattage to achieve optimum performance.

It is also important to ensure that the motor you choose is compatible with the voltage and capacity of your battery.

A too-small or underpowered motor may struggle to run on a high-voltage battery, while a too-large motor may draw too much power from the battery, causing it to overheat or fail.

In short, understanding the size of the electric motor is an important aspect of achieving optimal performance for your RC car.

By considering the various metrics and factors that affect motor performance, you can select the right size motor to suit your needs and preferences.

So, before you hit the track, take the time to do your research and select the perfect electric motor for your RC car to ensure an unforgettable driving experience.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an RC Motor Size

As an experienced RC enthusiast, I’ve learned that choosing the right size motor for your RC car is crucial to achieving optimal performance. There are several factors to consider when choosing an RC motor size, and taking the time to consider each can help you make an informed decision.

Here are some important things to consider when choosing an RC motor size:

Vehicle Weight and Size: The weight and size of your RC vehicle can significantly affect the performance of the motor. A larger or heavier vehicle may require a motor with higher torque or wattage to achieve the desired speed and acceleration.

Terrain type and driving style: The type of terrain and driving style you prefer can also affect the motor size you choose. For example, if you plan to drive on rough terrain or climb steep hills, you may need a motor with high torque to handle the challenge.

Desired Speed and Acceleration: If you’re looking for a high-speed, high-performance RC vehicle, you need a motor with a high wattage and Kv rating to achieve your desired speed and acceleration.

Battery voltage and capacity: The voltage and capacity of your battery can also affect the performance of the motor. A motor that is too small or underpowered may struggle to run on a high-voltage battery, while a motor that is too large may draw too much power from the battery, causing it to overheat or fail.

From my personal experience, taking the time to consider these factors can help you make an informed decision when selecting an RC motor size. Choosing a motor that matches your vehicle and driving style is essential to achieve optimal performance.

Additionally, it is important to ensure that the motor you choose is compatible with the voltage and capacity of your battery to avoid any potential problems or damage.

As an RC enthusiast, I understand that we have an emotional attachment to our cars, and choosing the right motor size can have a significant impact on the overall driving experience.

By taking the time to consider each factor, you can ensure that your RC car is equipped with the right motor to provide the best performance and maximize your enjoyment on the track.

So, before you make a purchase, do your research, and choose the perfect RC motor size for your car to experience the thrill and excitement of RC driving.

How to Calculate the Required Motor Size

Calculating the motor size needed for your RC car can be a daunting task, but it is an essential step to achieving optimal performance.

As an experienced RC enthusiast, I’ve learned that taking the time to calculate the required motor size can help ensure your vehicle meets your driving expectations. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to calculate the motor size needed for your RC car:

Step 1: Determine Vehicle Weight: The weight of your RC vehicle is an important factor in determining the motor size needed. Weigh your vehicle using a digital scale or check the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 2: Determine Desired Speed and Acceleration: The desired speed and acceleration of your RC car will also affect the motor size needed. Consider your preferred terrain and driving style and determine the speed and acceleration required to achieve your desired performance.

Step 3: Calculate Required Torque: The required torque is calculated by multiplying the weight of the vehicle by the desired acceleration. For example, if your car weighs 3 pounds and you want an acceleration of 5 mph per second, the required torque would be 15 lb-in.

Step 4: Calculate Required Wattage: The required wattage is calculated by multiplying the weight of the vehicle by the desired speed. For example, if your car weighs 3 pounds and you want a speed of 20 miles per hour, the required wattage would be 60 watts.

Step 5: Determine the Kv Rating: The Kv rating is calculated by dividing your battery voltage by the RPM of the motor. For example, if your battery is 11.1 volts and the motor RPM is 10,000, the Kv rating will be 900.

Step 6: Determine the Gear Ratio: The gear ratio is calculated by dividing the number of teeth on the pinion gear by the number of teeth on the spur gear. For example, if the pinion gear has 20 teeth and the spur gear has 80 teeth, the gear ratio will be 4:1.

Step 7: Calculate the Required Motor Size: The required motor size can be calculated using the following formula:

Motor Size = (Wattage Required / (KV Rating x Gear Ratio)) x 1.34

For example, if the required wattage is 60, the Kv rating is 900, and the gear ratio is 4:1, the required motor size will be 13.7T.

Choosing the Right Type of Motor

Choosing the right type of motor for your RC car is essential to achieve optimal performance.

As a dedicated RC enthusiast, I understand the importance of selecting the right motor to meet your driving needs. There are different types of motors available in the market, each with its own features and benefits.

Here is a detailed guide to help you choose the right type of motor for your RC car.

Brushed Motors: Brushed motors are the traditional type of motor used in RC vehicles, known for their reliability and low cost. They use brushes and a commutator to control the flow of electricity and generate motion. Brushed motors are ideal for beginners or those on a tight budget, as they are easy to maintain and repair.

Brushless Motors: Brushless motors are becoming increasingly popular in the RC industry for their high performance and efficiency. They do not use brushes and instead rely on electronic speed controllers (ESCs) to control the flow of electricity. Brushless motors are more expensive than brushed motors, but they offer better performance, speed, and power, making them ideal for experienced drivers or those looking for high-performance vehicles.

Coreless Motor: A coreless motor is a special type of brushed motor that features a hollow core armature. They are known for their high torque, high efficiency, and low power consumption, which makes them ideal for small or micro RC cars.

Inrunner Motor: Inrunner motor is a type of brushless motor that has a stator and rotor inside the motor housing. They are known for their high speeds and are often used in high-performance RC vehicles such as cars and airplanes.

Outrunner Motor: Outrunner motor is another type of brushless motor that has a stator on the outside of the motor and a rotor on the inside. They are known for their high torque and are often used in large RC vehicles such as boats and helicopters.

When choosing the right type of motor for your RC car, it is important to consider your driving style, vehicle weight, and desired performance.

From my personal experience, I recommend brushless motors for those looking for a high-performance vehicle, while brushed motors are ideal for beginners or those on a tight budget. Coreless motors are a great choice for small or micro RC vehicles, while runner and outrunner motors offer higher speeds or higher torque for larger vehicles.

Conclusion

In short, when choosing an electric motor for your RC car, take the time to research and consider your options, consult with experienced RC drivers, and most importantly, have fun!

RC driving is an exciting and rewarding hobby that offers endless possibilities and opportunities for growth and development. With the right motor, you can take your driving skills to the next level and experience the thrill and excitement of RC driving at its best.