Electric vs. gas-powered RC cars
Today,radio-controlled vehicles fall into two main categories: electric and gas-powered. So, what is the difference between these two types of vehicles? Which power source should you choose for your RC car? On the surface, gas-powered and electric cars are very similar, but they work in completely different ways.
The motor
Electric cars are powered by a battery, while gas-powered cars run on fuel. The motor used in model cars is quite similar to that of our gasoline-powered cars, but they should not be confused, as they operate slightly differently.
The electric motor
Electric cars can run on two types of motors: brushed or brushless. brushed motors are more commonly installed in radio-controlled toy cars , while brushless motors are preferred for competition radio-controlled cars.
brushed motors are quite limited in terms of settings and produce more friction and heat. These aspects significantly affect the performance of radio-controlled cars. The best option remains the brushless motor, which is much more powerful and capable of beating not only the brushed motor but also the Nitro motor in terms of speed!
The Nitro engine
The Nitro engine consists of many more parts than the electric motor: air filters, carburetor, spark plugs, pistons, etc. The fuel tank and exhaust system contribute to the complexity of the Nitro engine.
The chassis
Electric cars use two types of chassis: plastic or metal. While cheaper vehicles will favor a plastic chassis, which is less expensive, higher-end radio-controlled vehicles will often use metal chassis. The best is the carbon fiber chassis for its strength and lightness.
Gasoline-powered cars emit much more heat, which is why a metal chassis is preferable to a plastic one. This is especially true since the metal chassis acts as an effective heat sink.
What are the advantages of an electric car?
The advantages of electric cars
Electric radio-controlled vehicles are much easier for beginner modelers to get started with. Unlike combustion engine vehicles, they do not necessarily require mechanical knowledge, and the motor does not need to be broken in before starting. All you have to do is charge the battery before putting the car on the road. Maintaining an electric vehicle is fairly easy, and the only parts that are likely to break are the suspension, chassis, transmission, or steering components.
Electric radio-controlled cars are also cleaner and quieter than combustion engine cars. They are more suited to urban environments.
Today, most electric cars are considered waterproof, meaning they can be driven in all weather conditions and on all terrains. High-end electric cars are often faster than combustion engines thanks to rapid technological advances, particularly the use of Lipo batteries and brushless motors. Some electric cars can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h, such as the Traxxas Supercar!
The disadvantages of electric cars
Of course, electric radio-controlled cars also have disadvantages, notably the limited range of their batteries. Driving time is quite limited, from 15 to 30 minutes, and charging time is often long, up to 1 hour. You need to have extra batteries so you can enjoy a non-stop race! They are also more expensive because of the cost of batteries and replacement parts.
What are the advantages of a Nitro car?
The advantages of the Nitro car
Combustion engine vehicles will delight expert modelers who want to modify and improve their car by changing settings and parts. Model enthusiasts will be very happy to tinker with their Nitro engine to adapt it to their driving style. In addition, getting started requires mechanical skills.
Combustion engine cars are particularly suited to long races and can run for 30 to 45 minutes on a single tank of fuel. Unlike electric cars, the recharge time is limited; it only takes a few seconds to refill the tank and be ready for another lap of On-road.
One of the main advantages of a Nitro car is that the driving experience is very close to reality. Most RC enthusiasts really enjoy refueling, seeing the exhaust fumes, and hearing the sound it makes when accelerating.
The disadvantages of Nitro cars
Combustion engine vehicles require much more care than electric cars. They are messier and, to keep them in good condition, after each race session, you have to clean and add oil to the engine, drain the tank, etc.
In addition, starting it up or improving its performance requires solid DIY skills. The glow plugs must be replaced regularly and the fuel system must be checked from time to time. Finally, most combustion engine cars are not waterproof and are sensitive to water.
