Motor, Axle, and Wheel Torque
Motor, axle, and wheel torque are measurements taken at different points in the drivetrain. They should never be compared without the gear ratio and measurement boundary.
Motor torque
Motor torque is measured at the motor shaft. It combines with shaft speed to determine mechanical power.
Axle torque
After the reduction gear, rotational speed is lower and torque is higher. Driveline losses mean the increase is slightly less than the ideal gear ratio. An axle figure may describe one side, both output shafts, or a complete e-axle, so the definition must be checked.
Wheel torque
Wheel torque is the torque delivered at the driven wheels after gearing and differential effects. Dividing it by the effective tyre radius gives the approximate tractive force at the road before grip and dynamic effects are considered.
Gearing multiplies torque but does not create power. This is why a large wheel-torque number does not by itself indicate a more powerful EV. torque EV motor testing and ratings