Patent Publication Number: US-2022219783-A1

Title: Electric vehicle with steering column extending through battery pack

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/135,497, filed Jan. 8, 2021, from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/135,499, filed Jan. 8, 2021, from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/135,506, filed Jan. 8, 2021, and from Canadian Patent Application No. 3,113,789, filed Mar. 30, 2021, all of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety herein. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates generally to electric vehicles and, in particular embodiments, to powertrain components of electric vehicles. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Electric vehicles comprise different powertrain components than traditional combustion engine vehicles. For example, instead of having a fuel tank and a combustion engine, an electric vehicle comprises a battery pack and an electric motor. Due to the sizes and weights of the electric vehicle powertrain components, consideration is needed when locating and positioning them in relation to each other, as well as other components of the electric vehicle. The strength and rigidity of the electric vehicle should also be considered when locating and positioning the powertrain components. 
     By way of example, for an electric snowmobile, further consideration is needed when locating a battery pack and electric motor in relation to a chassis and suspension system. 
     SUMMARY 
     Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a battery pack that is configured and implemented as a structural element in an electric vehicle. For example, the battery enclosure of the battery pack may serve at least two functions in the electric vehicle. The first function is protecting and/or encapsulating other battery components, such as one or more battery cells, one or more battery modules and/or one or more battery controllers, for example. The second function is providing strength and rigidity to the electric vehicle by receiving loads from the suspension system, seat and/or steering system, for example. In this way, the battery pack may reduce the number, size and/or weight of other structural components in the electric vehicle, and increase the overall structural efficiency of the electric vehicle. 
     According to one example, an electric vehicle is provided that comprises a suspension system, a seat, a steering system, an electric motor and a battery pack. The battery pack may comprise one or more battery modules to provide power to the electric motor and a battery enclosure may house the one or more battery modules. The battery enclosure is a structural element of the electric vehicle to receive loads from at least two of the suspension system, the seat and the steering system of the electric vehicle. 
     In some examples, the battery enclosure transfers the loads received, at least partially, to a center of mass of the electric vehicle. Alternatively or additionally, the battery enclosure transfers the received loads, at least partially, to a chassis of the electric vehicle. According to another example, the battery enclosure defines a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion may receive loads from at least one of the suspension system (e.g., a front suspension of the electric vehicle) and the steering system. The rear portion may receive loads from at least the seat. 
     In some examples, the electric vehicle comprises a chassis defining a front brace structure, the battery enclosure connected to the front brace structure to receive loads from the front brace structure. Optionally, multiple different surfaces of the battery enclosure (e.g., front, top, side and/or bottom surfaces) are connected to the front brace structure. The suspension assembly may include a shock absorber that is connected to the front brace structure. 
     In some examples, the battery enclosure is connected to the steering system to receive loads from the steering system. 
     In some examples, the electric vehicle is a snowmobile. 
     According to one example, a battery enclosure for an electric vehicle is provided. The battery enclosure being a structural element of the electric vehicle and comprising a rear portion for connection to a rear portion of a chassis of the electric vehicle, the rear portion of the battery enclosure configured to receive loads from a seat of the electric vehicle; and a front portion for connection to a front portion of the chassis of the electric vehicle, the front portion of the battery enclosure configured to receive loads from a front suspension of the electric vehicle. 
     In some examples, the battery enclosure is configured to transfer loads received from the seat and/or the front suspension, at least partially, to a center of mass of the electric vehicle. In some examples, the battery enclosure is configured to transfer loads received from the seat and/or the front suspension, at least partially, to a chassis of the electric vehicle. In some examples, the front portion is to receive loads from a steering system of the electric vehicle and, optionally, to transfer those loads, at least partially, to a center of mass of the electric vehicle. 
     In some examples, the battery enclosure comprises a carbon fiber composite material. Alternatively or additionally, the battery enclosure comprises a glass fiber reinforced plastic material. The battery enclosure may have a stiffness that is within a range that is equal to or greater than 10 gigapascal (Gpa) and equal to or less than 70 Gpa. In some examples, the battery enclosure houses at least two electric battery modules and, optionally, provides a water-tight housing for the at least two electric battery modules. 
     In some examples, the electric vehicle is a snowmobile. In some examples, the rear portion of the battery enclosure is adapted for connection to a tunnel of the snowmobile, and the front portion of the battery enclosure is adapted for connection to a front brace structure of the snowmobile. 
     According to a further example, the battery enclosure transfers the loads received, at least partially, to a center of mass of the electric vehicle. In another example, the battery enclosure transfers the loads received, at least partially, to a chassis of the electric vehicle. According to another example, the battery enclosure defines a front portion and a rear portion, the front portion receiving loads from a front suspension of the electric vehicle. According to another example, the battery enclosure defines a front portion and a rear portion, the front portion receiving loads from the steering system and the rear portion receiving loads from the seat. 
     According to one example, a snowmobile is provided comprising a chassis that comprises a rear tunnel and a front brace structure adapted to receive loads from a front suspension system of the snowmobile. The snowmobile further comprises a battery enclosure defining a tunnel portion and a front portion, the tunnel portion being connected to the rear tunnel of the chassis and the front portion being connected to the front brace structure of the chassis. The battery enclosure receives loads from the front suspension system of the snowmobile through the front brace structure and transfers the loads from the front suspension system to at least one of the rear tunnel and a center of mass of the electric vehicle through a body of the battery enclosure. 
     In some examples, the battery enclosure is further connected to the front brace structure at a bottom surface. In some examples, a steering mount is connected to the front portion of the battery enclosure for connection to a steering column, the steering mount transferring loads from the steering column into the body of the battery enclosure. In some examples, a seat is connected to the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure, wherein loads from the seat are received by and transferred into the body of the battery enclosure. In some examples the front portion of the battery enclosure defines a first height and the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure defines a second height, the first height being greater than the second height. In some examples, the front portion of the battery enclosure defines a first width and the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure defines a second width, the first width being greater than the second width. In some examples, the front suspension system comprises at least one coil over spring and damper assembly. In some examples, at least one coil over spring and damper assembly is connected between a pair of skis and the front brace structure. In some examples, the battery enclosure comprises a carbon fiber composite material. In some examples, the battery enclosure comprises an injection molded glass fiber reinforced plastic material. In some examples, the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure is connected to the rear tunnel of the chassis via two or more right side blocks and two or more left side blocks. In some examples, the battery enclosure has a stiffness that is within a range that is equal to or greater than 10 Gpa and equal to or less than 70 Gpa. In some examples, the battery enclosure comprises a cover and a floor. In some examples the battery enclosure houses at least two electric battery modules for supplying electricity to the electric motor. In some examples, the battery modules comprise one or more pouch battery cells. 
     According to one example, a battery enclosure for an electric snowmobile is provided. The battery enclosure comprises a tunnel portion adapted for connection to a rear tunnel of a snowmobile chassis, a front portion adapted for connection to a front brace structure of the snowmobile chassis. The battery enclosure is configured to receive loads from a front suspension system of the snowmobile through the front brace structure and transfers the loads from the front suspension system to at least one of the rear tunnel and a center of mass of the electric vehicle through a body of the battery enclosure. 
     In one example, the battery enclosure is configured for connection to a steering column via a steering mount for receiving loads from the steering column into the body of the battery enclosure. In some examples, the battery enclosure is configured for connection to a seat of the electric vehicle for receiving loads from the seat into the body of the battery enclosure. In some examples, the front portion of the battery enclosure defines a first height and the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure defines a second height, the first height being greater than the second height. In some examples, the front portion of the battery enclosure defines a first width and the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure defines a second width, the first width being greater than the second width. In some examples, the battery enclosure comprises a carbon fiber composite material. In some examples, the battery enclosure comprises an injection molded glass fiber reinforced plastic material. In some examples, the battery enclosure has a stiffness that is within a range that is equal to or greater than 10 gigapascal (Gpa) and equal to or less than 70 Gpa. In some examples, the battery enclosure comprises a cover and a floor. 
     According to one example, an electric vehicle is provided that comprises a straddle-seat, a chassis, a suspension system and a battery pack configured as a structural element that receives loads from the suspension system. In one example, the battery pack comprising a battery enclosure coupled to the suspension system to transfer, at least partially, loads from the suspension system through a body of the battery enclosure to the chassis. In one example, a brace structure transfers loads between the suspension system and the battery enclosure. In one example, the straddle-seat is mounted directly to the battery pack. In one example, the electric vehicle is a snowmobile. 
     Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a battery pack that defines a slot to accommodate and receive a steering column of the electric vehicle. In this way, the steering column can extend through the battery pack. Optionally, the slot may be provided in a battery enclosure of the battery pack. The steering column may connect handlebars of the electric vehicle to one or more steering arms, which allows the electric vehicle to be steered and controlled. Advantageously, the slot may allow the steering column to be substantially straight, rather than be bent to avoid the battery pack. A straight steering column may be stronger, easier to manufacturer, and provide a better ride quality than a bent steering column. 
     One example provides an electric vehicle. The electric vehicle includes a battery pack having a battery enclosure, the battery enclosure defines a slot that extends downwards from a top surface of the battery enclosure for receiving a steering column of the electric vehicle. 
     In one example, the slot extends downwards from the top surface of the battery enclosure to a front side surface of the battery enclosure. In another example, the slot extends downwards from the top surface of the battery enclosure to a bottom surface of the battery enclosure. In one example, the width of the slot varies along a length, a top end of the slot being wider than a bottom end of the slot. 
     In one example, the slot divides the front portion of the battery enclosure into a first side and a second side, wherein each of the first side and second side is suitable for housing one or more electric battery modules. In one example, the slot is positioned substantially centrally with respect to a first side wall and a second side wall of the battery enclosure. 
     In one example, the battery enclosure is a structural component suitable for receiving loads from the steering column and transferring the loads to a chassis. In one example, a straight steering column passes through the slot. 
     Another example provides a snowmobile. The snowmobile includes a chassis that comprises a rear tunnel, a front brace structure, and a battery enclosure defining a tunnel portion and a front portion, the tunnel portion being connected to the rear tunnel of the chassis and the front portion being connected to the front brace structure, wherein the front portion of the battery enclosure defines a slot that extends downwards from a top surface of the battery enclosure for receiving a steering column of the snowmobile. 
     In one example, the slot extends downwards from the top surface of the battery enclosure to a front side surface of the battery enclosure. In one example, the slot extends downwards from the top surface of the battery enclosure to a bottom surface of the battery enclosure. In one example, the slot defines a first side wall, a second side wall and a bottom surface, wherein the bottom surface of the slot extends at an angle of between 30-60 degrees with respect to a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile. In one example, a width of the slot is between 30 millimeters (mm) and 60 mm. In one example, the width of the slot varies along a length, a top end of the slot being wider than a bottom end of the slot. 
     In one example, the slot divides the front portion of the battery enclosure into a first side and a second side, wherein each of the first side and second side is suitable for housing one or more electric battery modules. In one example, the slot is positioned substantially centrally with respect to a first side wall and a second side wall of the battery enclosure. In one example, the battery enclosure is a structural component suitable for receiving loads from the steering column and transferring the loads to the chassis. In one example, a straight steering column passes through the slot. 
     In one example, a top of the steering column is above the top surface of the battery enclosure and a bottom of the steering column is below a bottom surface of the battery enclosure and is attached to a steering mechanism that controls a direction of a right front ski and a left front ski for the snowmobile. In one example, an upper steering mount is attached to the top surface of the battery enclosure and is configured to support an upper portion of the steering column and provide a stiffness to the upper portion of the steering column. 
     In one example, the battery enclosure has a stiffness that is within a range that is equal to or greater than 10 gigapascal (Gpa) and equal to or less than 70 Gpa, and wherein the stiffness of the battery enclosure corresponds with the stiffness that the upper steering mount provides to the upper portion of the steering column. 
     In one example, the upper steering mount comprises a right upper steering mount and a left upper steering mount attached to a pipe having an axis aligned with an axis of the steering column, and wherein the steering column passes through the pipe and is supported by the pipe. In one example, the steering column passes through the slot at an angle with respect to an axis of the steering column and a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile that is equal to or greater than 30 degrees and equal to or less than 60 degrees. In one example, the slot is centered between a right side wall and a left side wall of the front portion of the battery enclosure, and wherein a right side stack of one or more batteries are between a first side wall of the slot and a first side wall of the front portion of the battery enclosure, and wherein a left side stack of one or more batteries are between a second side wall of the slot and a second side wall of the front portion of the battery enclosure. 
     In one example, the front portion of the battery enclosure has a width in a direction transverse to a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile in a direction between the front end and the back end of the snowmobile that is greater than a width of the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure, and wherein the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure includes a row of one or more batteries aligned along the substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile between the front end and the rear end of the snowmobile. 
     Another example provides a battery enclosure for an electric vehicle. The batter enclosure includes a rear portion, and a front portion, the front portion of the battery enclosure defining a slot that extends downwards from a top surface of the battery enclosure for receiving a steering column of the electric vehicle. 
     In one example, the slot extends downwards from the top surface of the battery enclosure to a front side surface of the battery enclosure. In one example, the slot extends downwards from the top surface of the battery enclosure to a bottom surface of the battery enclosure. In one example, the slot defines a first side wall, a second side wall and a bottom surface, wherein the bottom surface of the slot extends at an angle of between 30-60 degrees with respect to a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the electric vehicle. In one example, a width of the slot is between 30 millimeters (mm) and 60 mm. In one example, the slot divides the front portion of the battery enclosure into a first side and a second side, wherein each of the first side and second side is suitable for housing electric battery modules. In one example, the slot is positioned substantially centrally with respect to a first side wall and a second side wall of the battery enclosure. In one example, the battery enclosure has a stiffness that is within a range that is equal to or greater than 10 gigapascal (Gpa) and equal to or less than 70 Gpa. 
     In one example, the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure includes a row of one or more batteries in a direction between the front portion of the battery enclosure and the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure. In one example, the battery enclosure comprises a carbon fiber composite material. In one example, the battery enclosure comprises an injection molded glass fiber reinforced plastic material. 
     In one example, the electric vehicle is a snowmobile. 
     According to one example, an electric vehicle is provided that comprises a steering system comprising a steering column and a battery pack comprising a battery enclosure and a plurality of battery modules housed within the battery enclosure, the battery enclosure defining a slot that extends from at least a top surface of the battery enclosure to receive the steering column. 
     In some examples, the slot is substantially straight and/or a portion of the steering column received by the slot is substantially straight. 
     In some examples, the slot extends from the top surface of the battery enclosure to a front side surface of the battery enclosure. Alternatively or additionally, the slot extends from the top surface of the battery enclosure to a bottom surface of the battery enclosure. 
     In some examples, the steering system comprises a handlebar attachment coupled to an upper portion of the steering column. The steering system may also or instead comprise at least one steering arm coupled to a lower portion of the steering column. The electric vehicle may comprise at least one ski assembly coupled to the at least one steering arm. 
     In some examples, the slot divides a portion of the battery enclosure into a first side and a second side, wherein each of the first side and the second side houses one or more of the plurality of electric battery modules. The slot may be positioned substantially centrally with respect to a first side wall and a second side wall of the battery enclosure. The slot may define a bottom surface, the bottom surface extending at an angle of between 30-60 degrees with respect to a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the electric vehicle. A width of the slot may be between 30 millimeters (mm) and 60 mm. 
     In some examples, the steering system comprises a mount coupled to the top surface of the battery enclosure to support an upper portion of the steering column. The battery enclosure may be a structural component suitable for receiving loads from the steering column and transferring the loads to a chassis of the electric vehicle. 
     In some examples, the electric vehicle is a straddle-seat vehicle comprising a straddle-seat, such as a snowmobile. The straddle-seat may be coupled to the battery pack. 
     According one example, an electric snowmobile is provided that comprises a chassis comprising a rear tunnel and a front brace structure; a steering system comprising a steering column; and a battery enclosure defining a tunnel portion and a front portion, the tunnel portion being connected to the rear tunnel of the chassis and the front portion being connected to the front brace structure, wherein the front portion of the battery enclosure defines a slot that extends downwards from a top surface of the battery enclosure for receiving the steering column. The electric snowmobile may also comprise at least one ski assembly connected to the steering system. 
     According to one example, a battery pack for an electric vehicle is provided that comprises a plurality of battery modules and a battery enclosure housing the plurality of battery module and defining a slot to receive a steering column of the electric vehicle that extends from a top surface of the battery enclosure. The battery enclosure may define a rear portion, a front portion first side and a front portion second side, the front portion first side and the front portion second side being separated by the slot. Each of the rear portion, the front portion first side and the front portion second side may house at least one stack of battery modules. 
     Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide an electric motor that is positioned and mounted on a chassis of an electric vehicle to provide a space efficient configuration and better manage loads. For example, the electric motor may be positioned within a mid-bay of an electric snowmobile, between a rear tunnel and a front end of the electric snowmobile and below a battery pack. The electric motor may also or instead be adjacent to a front wall of the rear tunnel. This position may place the electric motor in proximity to, and substantially horizontal to, a transmission of the electric snowmobile for space efficiency. Further, a simply supported transmission plate may be used to mount and stabilize the electric motor. The transmission plate may be connected at one end to the rear tunnel and at another end to a front brace structure. These connection points of the transmission plate may be generally aligned with at least some loads exerted by the electric motor and/or the transmission on the transmission plate. In this way, the transmission plate may be configured to better manage the loads without bending and may be lighter than other transmission plates not utilizing such a configuration. 
     One example provides an electric vehicle. The electric vehicle includes a chassis defining a rear portion and a front portion, a transmission mounted to a rear portion of the chassis, and a battery enclosure mounted on top of the rear portion of the chassis. An electric motor mounted below the battery enclosure and between a front side of the rear chassis and a front end of the electric vehicle. 
     In one example, the electric motor is oriented generally horizontally relative to the transmission. In one example, the electric vehicle includes a transmission drive shaft and a motor drive shaft spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the electric vehicle. 
     In one example, the rear portion of the chassis is a rear tunnel and the front portion of the chassis is a front brace structure, wherein a transmission plate attached to the electric motor is connected at a first end to the rear tunnel and at a second end to the front brace structure. In one example, the electric vehicle is a snowmobile. 
     Another example provides a snowmobile. The snowmobile includes a chassis that comprises a rear tunnel, a battery enclosure mounted to the rear tunnel, and an electric motor mounted below the battery enclosure and adjacent to a front side of the rear tunnel. 
     In one example, the chassis further defines a mid-bay and a front brace structure, the mid-bay being located between the rear tunnel and the front brace structure, wherein the electric motor is positioned within the mid-bay. In one example, the mid-bay comprises a transmission plate positioned substantially parallel to a first side edge of the rear tunnel. In one example, transmission plate is attached at a first end to the first side edge of the rear tunnel and at a second end to a component of the front brace structure. In one example, the transmission plate is further attached to a front plate of the electric motor. 
     In one example, the snowmobile further comprises a transmission, wherein the electric motor is mounted proximate to the transmission by the transmission plate. In one example, the transmission plate includes a U-shaped opening that extends downwards from a top side of the transmission plate, and wherein the electric motor is attached to both sides of the U-shaped opening such that a drive shaft of the electric motor extends through the U-shaped opening. In one example, a component of the front brace structure is mounted to an underside of the battery enclosure and to the transmission plate. 
     In one example, the electric motor includes an electric motor drive gear and the transmission includes a transmission gear, and wherein a drive belt is connected between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear such that an angle of a top portion of the drive belt between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear with respect to a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile is equal to or less than 20% and equal to or greater than −20%. In one example, the snowmobile further includes a drive belt idler pulley that contacts a bottom surface of the bottom portion of the drive belt, and wherein the top portion of the drive belt is connected directly between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear. 
     Another example provides an electric snowmobile. The electric snowmobile includes a transmission mounted within an interior of a rear tunnel of the snowmobile and proximate to a rear suspension of a track of the snowmobile, and a battery enclosure mounted to the rear tunnel. The electric motor is mounted below the battery enclosure and between a front side of the rear tunnel and a front end of the snowmobile. 
     In one example, a transmission is provided, wherein the electric motor is mounted directly to the transmission by a transmission plate, and wherein the transmission plate is mounted to the rear tunnel of the snowmobile. In one example, the transmission plate includes a U-shaped opening that extends downwards from a top side of the transmission plate, and wherein the electric motor is attached to the transmission plate at an interior of the transmission plate such that a drive shaft of the electric motor extends through from the interior to an exterior of the U-shaped opening of the transmission plate. 
     In one example, the electric motor includes an electric motor drive gear and the transmission includes a transmission gear, and wherein a drive belt is connected between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear such that an angle of a top portion of the drive belt between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear with respect to a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile is equal to or less that 20% and equal to or greater than −20%. 
     According to one example, an electric vehicle is provided that comprises a chassis comprising a rear portion and a front portion, and a suspension system comprising a front suspension coupled to the front portion of the chassis and a rear suspension coupled to the rear portion of the chassis. A battery pack is mounted at least partially on top of the rear portion of the chassis. An electric motor, powered by the battery pack, is mounted below the battery pack and between the rear portion of the chassis and a front end of the electric vehicle. The electric vehicle may also include a straddle-seat coupled to the battery pack. The electric vehicle may be a snowmobile. 
     In some examples, the electric vehicle comprises a transmission mounted to the rear portion of the chassis and coupled to the electric motor. The electric motor may be positioned substantially horizontally relative to the transmission. The electric vehicles may include a drive linkage (which is optionally a component of the transmission) to couple the transmission to the electric motor. The drive linkage may comprise a drive belt and/or a drive chain. In some examples, an angle of a portion of the drive linkage extending between the electric motor and the transmission with respect to a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the electric vehicle is between 11.3 degrees and −11.3 degrees. 
     In some examples, the rear portion of the chassis comprises a rear tunnel and the front portion of the chassis comprises a front brace structure and the electric vehicle comprises a transmission plate coupled to the electric motor. A first end of the transmission plate is connected to the rear tunnel and a second end of the transmission plate is connected to the front brace structure. The first end and the second end of the transmission plate may be spaced apart along a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the electric vehicle. The transmission plate may comprise a slot extending downwards from a top side of the transmission plate, and a drive shaft of the electric motor extends through the slot of the transmission plate. 
     According to one example, an electric snowmobile is provided that comprises a chassis comprising a rear tunnel; a battery pack mounted to the rear tunnel; and an electric motor, powered by the battery pack, mounted below the battery pack and adjacent to a front side of the rear tunnel. 
     In some examples, the chassis comprises a mid-bay and a front brace structure, the mid-bay being located between the rear tunnel and the front brace structure, wherein the electric motor is positioned within the mid-bay. Optionally, the electric vehicle comprises a transmission plate coupled to the electric motor. A first end of the transmission plate may be connected to the rear tunnel and a second end of the transmission plate may be connected to the front brace structure. The first end and the second end of the transmission plate may be spaced apart along a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the electric snowmobile. Further, the transmission plate may comprise a slot extending downwards from a top side of the transmission plate, and a drive shaft of the electric motor may extend through the slot of the transmission plate. 
     In some examples, the electric snowmobile comprises a transmission mounted to the rear tunnel of the chassis and coupled to the electric motor. The electric motor may be positioned substantially horizontally relative to the transmission. A drive linkage may couple the transmission to the electric motor. An angle of a portion of the drive linkage extending between the electric motor and the transmission with respect to a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the electric vehicle may be between 11.3 degrees and −11.3 degrees. 
     According to one example, an electric snowmobile is provided that comprises a chassis comprising a rear tunnel; a transmission mounted within an interior of a rear tunnel; a battery pack mounted to the rear tunnel; and an electric motor, powered by the battery pack, mounted adjacent to a front side of the rear tunnel and substantially horizontally relative to the transmission. 
     According to one example, an electric vehicle is provided that comprises a straddle-seat, a chassis, and a battery pack coupled to the straddle-seat to passively transfer heat to the straddle-seat. The battery pack may support the straddle-seat to receive loads from the straddle-seat. In some examples, the battery pack comprises a battery enclosure, the straddle-seat is mounted to the battery enclosure, and the battery enclosure is configured to transfer, at least partially, loads from the straddle-seat through a body of the battery enclosure to the chassis. In some examples, the straddle-seat is configured to receive radiant heat generated during discharge of the battery pack. Optionally, the electric vehicle is a snowmobile. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a block diagram illustrating components of an electric vehicle, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 2  is a front view of an electric vehicle embodied as a snowmobile, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 3  is a side view of the snowmobile of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 4  is another side view of the snowmobile of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 5A  is a partial side view of the snowmobile of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 5B  is a block diagram illustrating a load path of a snowmobile, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 6  is a front top partial perspective view of the snowmobile of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 7A  is an enlarged partial perspective view of section A of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 7B  is an enlarged partial perspective view of a connection location shown in  FIG. 7A . 
         FIG. 8  is a partial front view of the snowmobile of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a battery enclosure taken along the line  9 - 9  in  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 10  is a diagram illustrating an angle of a surface of the battery enclosure of  FIG. 9  relative to a longitudinal axis of the snowmobile of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 11  is an enlarged partial perspective view of the snowmobile of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 12  is a partial side view of a snowmobile, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 13  is a partial side view of a snowmobile, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 14  is a front top perspective view of a battery pack, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 15  is a top view of the battery pack of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 16  is a side view of the battery pack of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 17  is a front view of the battery pack of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 18  is a partial perspective view of an electric motor assembly, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 19  is an enlarged partial perspective view of the electric motor assembly of  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 20  is a partial side view of the electric motor assembly of  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 21  is another partial side view of the electric motor assembly of  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 22  is a partial perspective view of the electric motor assembly of  FIG. 18 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration specific examples in which the disclosure may be practiced. It is to be understood that other examples may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense. It is to be understood that features of the various examples described herein may be combined, in part or whole, with each other, unless specifically noted otherwise. 
     The present disclosure relates, in part, to electric vehicles. In one or more examples illustrated herein, an electric vehicle is a powersport vehicle such as an electric snowmobile. It is recognized that although a snowmobile is used in some examples, the present disclosure also applies to other electric vehicles, including other electric powersport vehicles (e.g., electric all-terrain vehicles (ATV), utility task vehicles (UTV), personal watercraft, side-by-side vehicles, motorcycles, etc.). In some examples, the electric vehicle is a straddle-seat electric vehicle, which is a vehicle where the seat is straddled by a rider, such as a snowmobile, personal watercraft or ATV, among others. 
     In some embodiments, an electric vehicle includes a battery pack that is configured as a structural element. For example, the battery pack may receive loads from a suspension system and/or other components of the electric vehicle during operation of the electric vehicle. Utilizing the battery pack as a structural element results in dynamic advantages in operation of the electric vehicle and an ergonomic advantage to the electric vehicle riders. 
       FIG. 1  is a block diagram illustrating components of an electric vehicle  100  according to one example of the present disclosure. The electric vehicle  100  includes a chassis  110  (or frame), a suspension system  112  and a battery pack  114 , among other components that are not shown. The battery pack  114  is configured as a structural element that receives loads from at least the suspension system  112 , indicated at  115   a , and may transfer loads, at least partially, from the suspension system  112 , through the battery pack  114  to the chassis  110 , indicated at  115   b . As will be described in more detail below, the battery pack  114  may be further configured to receive loads from all or some of the seating of the electric vehicle  100  and a steering column, among other components or mechanisms of the electric vehicle  100 , and transfer those loads, at least partially, to the chassis  110 . 
     In some examples, the battery pack  114  may transfer loads to the center of mass (or center of gravity) of the electric vehicle  100 . The center of mass (CM) may correspond to a location on or within the chassis  110 ; however, this need not always be the case. The center of mass may also or instead correspond to other components of the electric vehicle  100  such as the battery pack  114 , for example. The transfer of received loads from the battery pack  114  to the center of mass may result from the battery pack  114  being a structural element that adds strength and/or rigidity to the electric vehicle  100 . The transfer of load in an electric vehicle may be considered the transfer of inertia from a linear and/or rotational acceleration. By way of example, when the electric vehicle  100  travels over a bump, the suspension system  112  may experience a linear and/or rotational acceleration as the suspension system  112  is forced upwards by the bump. The acceleration may be transferred as a load to the center of mass via the battery pack  114 . When the load reaches the center of mass, it may be considered to act on the entire electric vehicle  100 , forcing the electric vehicle  100  upwards. 
     It should be noted that although the battery pack  114  is a structural element of the electric vehicle  100 , forces may also be transferred directly from the suspension system  114  to the chassis  110  (or center of mass) without transiting the battery pack  114 . For example, the suspension system  112  and the center of mass may be connected via other linkages that can transfer loads. The proportions of loads that are transferred via the battery pack  114  may depend on the rigidity of the battery pack relative to other linkages between the suspension system  112  and the center of mass. 
     In the illustrated example, the battery pack  114  comprises a battery enclosure  116  housing one or more battery modules  119 . The battery enclosure  116  may protect the battery module  119  from external impacts, water and/or other debris. In one example, it is the battery enclosure  116  that is coupled to the suspension system  112  for receiving and transferring loads between the other vehicle components. A brace structure  118  that forms part of the chassis  110  may be present to transfer loads between the battery enclosure  116  and the suspension system  112 . 
       FIG. 2  is a front view of an electric vehicle embodied as an electric snowmobile  120 , according to one example of the present disclosure. The snowmobile  120  is illustrated with one or more elements removed to aid in describing the remaining elements of the snowmobile  120 . For example, in one or more figures, various body panels of the snowmobile  120  (e.g., the hood) are removed, the endless track is removed and/or the snowmobile seat is removed. 
     The snowmobile  120  includes a chassis  122  (or frame), a battery pack  124  and a suspension system  126 . The chassis  122  provides a load bearing framework for the snowmobile  120 . The suspension system  126  connects the chassis  122  to the endless track and/or skis of the snowmobile  120 , and provides the steering/handling of the snowmobile  120 . The suspension system  126  may also provide shock absorption to improve ride quality for a user. The chassis  122  and/or suspension system  126  may be formed from, inter alia, metal, metal alloys, plastics and/or composites, for example. 
     As described above with respect to  FIG. 1 , the battery pack  124  comprises a battery enclosure  128  that houses one or more battery modules therein. In one example, the battery pack  124 , and more specifically the battery enclosure  128 , forms a structural element of the snowmobile  120  and is configured to receive, partially absorb and transfer loads from other snowmobile components, including the suspension system  126 , the seating (not shown in  FIG. 2 ), and/or a steering system  150 , to the vehicle&#39;s center of mass and/or to the chassis  122 . 
     The battery enclosure  128  is made of a material that provides sufficient structural support to the snowmobile  120 , or another electric vehicle, such that it acts as a structural element of the vehicle. The material of the battery enclosure  128  has a stiffness sufficient for receiving and absorbing loads, as well as transmitting loads between the vehicle components (e.g., the suspension system  126 , seating and steering system  150 ) and the vehicle&#39;s center of mass and/or the chassis  122 . The battery enclosure  128  may provide sufficient structural support to replace traditional support members such as braces, tubes and linkages, thus facilitating a more lightweight, compact, cost-efficient and/or ergonomic design for the snowmobile  120 . 
     In one example, the battery enclosure  128  is made of a carbon fiber composite material. Optionally, the carbon fiber composite material may have a thickness of 2-3 millimeters with an elastic modulus (i.e., stiffness) rating of at least 60 GPa. In other examples, the material has a stiffness rating between 10 GPa and 70 GPa. 
     In another example, the battery enclosure  128  is made of a material such as a polymer or a loaded polymer. In one example, the battery enclosure  128  is made of a glass fiber reinforced polymer (plastic) using an injection molding process, for example. In one example, the polymer incudes glass fiber reinforcement that provides stiffness to the battery enclosure  128 . For example, the polymer may include between 20-40% glass fiber content, and in another non-limiting example, 30% glass fiber content. In another example, the material of the battery enclosure  128  has a stiffness rating of at least 10 times the stiffness of a suspension spring element (i.e., a shock absorber). In another example, the material of the battery enclosure  128  has a stiffness that can range from 3 GPa without any fiber reinforcement to approximately 13 GPa with a 40% fiber reinforcement. It is recognized that other combinations of material and fiber reinforcement may be used based on the type of material and fiber used, and design requirements for a given application. 
     Other materials that the battery enclosure  128  may be made from are also contemplated. For example, the battery enclosure  128  may be made in whole or in part from metal or metal alloys. 
     The battery enclosure  128  may be formed in a single piece, or multiple pieces that are secured together. For example, the battery enclosure  128  may include a floor (not shown) that may be a relatively flat plate that is secured to the chassis  122  and a lid that connects to the floor in order to create a cavity for housing the electric battery module(s). In another example, the battery enclosure  128  may be made of two halves that connect at a central seam. In other examples, the battery enclosure  128  could be made of a bucket and a top cover; or there could be a floor, a ring-like central portion and a cover or lid. 
     It is also recognized that in areas where additional support is needed, the thickness of the material can be increased to provide additional stiffness. For example, reinforcement ribs can be injection molded into the material shape and thickness using the same material. In this manner, additional support and stiffness can be selectively provided to desired areas of the battery enclosure while still injection molding the same material throughout the process. 
     In one example, in addition to being a structural element that is able to receive, absorb and/or transfer loads received from the suspension system  126 , the steering system  150  and/or the seating, the battery enclosure  128  is also designed to withstand impact and damage that may be experienced during use of the snowmobile  120 . In a further example, the battery enclosure  128  is designed to protect the electric battery from the elements, and when sealed, may provide a water-tight enclosure that is closed to water and foreign debris ingress. In this manner, the battery enclosure  128  may provide sufficient protection such that the electric battery module(s) can be housed directly within the battery enclosure  128 . 
     In one example, the battery enclosure  128  might not be completely sealed to the elements and the electric battery module(s) may be provided within a non-structural watertight enclosure that is then, in-turn, housed within the structural battery enclosure  128 . The battery enclosure  128  may include an exoskeleton that provides a relatively lightweight yet rigid shape to at least partially protect the battery modules, while also acting as a structural element of the snowmobile  120 . For example, the exoskeleton may include a honeycomb lattice structure. Another enclosure, such as a watertight bag or container, for example, may provide the battery modules with protection from the elements. 
     Advantageously, the battery enclosure  128  may provide both housing of the battery modules (e.g., water-tight encapsulation and/or protection) and structural support. Combining this functionality in the battery enclosure  128  may reduce the size and/or weight of the chassis  122 , for example, and enable a more lightweight, compact, cost-efficient and/or ergonomic design of the snowmobile  120 . For example, implementing the battery enclosure  128  as a structural element may eliminate the need for other structural components that add strength and rigidity to the snowmobile  120 . 
       FIG. 3  is a side view of the snowmobile  120  and  FIG. 4  is another side view of the snowmobile  120 . As shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the snowmobile  120  includes a front end  102 , a rear end  104  (or back end), a top  106  and a bottom  108 . The snowmobile also includes two sides. One or more longitudinal axis, transverse axis and vertical axis may be defined for the snowmobile  120 . A longitudinal axis generally extends between the front end  102  and the rear end  104  of the snowmobile  120 , and corresponds to a typical horizontal direction of travel for the snowmobile  120 . A vertical axis extends in the vertical direction between the top  106  and bottom  108  when the snowmobile  120  is oriented for operation, i.e., with the suspension system  122  supporting the snowmobile  120  on the ground. A transverse axis extends horizontally between the two sides of the snowmobile  120 . 
     As also shown in  FIGS. 2 to 4 , the chassis  122  of the snowmobile  120  includes a rear tunnel  130  and a front brace structure  132 . The front brace structure  132  is connected to and configured to receive loads from the suspension system  126 . The front brace structure  132  includes a first top brace  134  and a second top brace  136 . The rear tunnel  130  and/or the front brace structure  132  may be made from metal, metal alloys, plastics and/or composite materials, for example. 
     The suspension system  126  may be coupled to the battery enclosure  128 , either directly or indirectly through the chassis  122 , and more specifically through at least the front brace structure  132 . In one example, the suspension system  126  may comprise a front suspension system that includes a first suspension leg  138  and a second suspension leg  140 . The first suspension leg  138  includes a first shock absorber  142  and is coupled to a first ski assembly  144 . The second suspension leg  140  includes a second shock absorber  146  and is coupled to a second ski assembly  148 . The first top brace  134  is coupled between the battery enclosure  128  and the first suspension leg  138 . The second top brace  136  is coupled between the battery enclosure  128  and the second suspension leg  140 . The first suspension leg  138  and the second suspension leg  140  may also include other structural components, such as one or more wishbone arms and/or one or more anti-roll bars, that may be connected to the front brace structure  132  and/or to other portions of the chassis  122 . 
     The shock absorbers  142 ,  146  may each comprise a coil over spring and damper assembly, a hydraulic or pneumatic piston assembly, or any other type of shock assembly known to those skilled in the art. The shock absorbers  142 ,  146  are connected either directly or indirectly between their respective ski assemblies  144 ,  148  and the front brace structure  132  of the chassis  122 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the suspension system  126  includes a back or rear suspension system  180  (which may also be referred to as a “skid” or “rear skid”) to support the real tunnel  130 . The rear suspension system  180  may include one or more skid rails to support an endless track that provides traction to drive the snowmobile  120 . The rear suspension system  180  may also include a front control arm, a rear control arm and one or more shock absorbers that connect the slide rails to the rear tunnel  130 . 
     Also illustrated in  FIG. 2  is the steering system  150  having handlebar attachment  154  coupled to an upper portion of the steering column  152 . The handlebar attachment  154  may enable handlebars to be rigidly coupled to the steering column  152  and enable a user to rotate the steering column  152  to turn the snowmobile  120  during use. 
     The steering system  150  also includes a steering assembly  156  coupled to the first and second ski assemblies  144 ,  148 . The steering assembly  156  includes a first steering arm  157  (or steering link) and a second steering arm  159 . The first steering arm  157  connects a lower portion of the steering column  152  to the first ski assembly  144  and the second steering arm  159  connects the lower portion of the steering column  152  to the second ski assembly  148 . The connections between the steering column, the steering arms  157 ,  159  and the ski assemblies  144 ,  148  may be rotatable and/or pivotable (e.g., using ball joints) to accommodate rotation of the steering column  152  and/or motion of the suspension legs  138 ,  140 . In some examples, the steering arms  157 ,  159  might not be directly coupled to the steering column  152 . A rack and pinion assembly might be implemented between the steering column  152  and the steering arms  157 ,  159 . In this way, the steering arms  157 ,  159  might be indirectly coupled to the steering column. Similarly, the steering arms  157 ,  159  might also or instead be indirectly coupled to the ski assemblies  144 ,  148 . 
     The steering column  152  is securely and rotatably coupled to the battery enclosure  128  at a location  160  via a steering mount. The steering column  152  may extend at least partially through the battery enclosure  128 . In one example, the steering column  152  freely rotates within a tunnel or slot  162  defined by the battery enclosure  128  during steering of the snowmobile  120 . One or more examples of the steering system  150  are described in further detail elsewhere herein. 
     Reference is now made to  FIG. 3  and  FIG. 4 . As indicated above, the chassis  122  comprises the rear tunnel  130  and the front brace structure  132 . The battery pack  124  is illustrated positioned, at least partially, over the rear tunnel  130 . The battery enclosure  128  of the battery pack  124  defines a tunnel portion  200  (or rear portion) and a front portion  202 . In one example, the tunnel portion  200  (or rear portion) is connected to the rear tunnel  130  of the chassis  122 , and the front portion  202  is connected to the front brace structure  132 . In one example, the tunnel portion  200  may be generally rectangular shaped with one or more chamfered edges, although other shapes are also possible, including an elongated dome shape, or a truncated prismatic shape, among other possibilities. The tunnel portion  200  is connected to the rear tunnel  130  of the chassis  122  at connection points or blocks  204 . The tunnel portion  200  may be rigidly connected to the rear tunnel  130  via mechanical fasteners such as nuts and bolts, rivets, staples, etc. In some embodiments, a bottom portion or floor of the battery enclosure  128  may be connected to the rear tunnel  130  more permanently via welding, soldering or adhesion among other possibilities. In such a case, an upper portion or lid of the battery enclosure  128  may then be rigidly fastened to the floor via mechanical fasteners, a friction fit, a snap fit or any other suitable removable fastening mechanism. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the front portion  202  of the battery enclosure  128  may be generally rectangular shaped and is located towards the front of snowmobile  120 . In some cases, the front portion  202  may have one or more chamfered edges. In one example, front portion  202  of the battery enclosure  128  has different width and height dimensions from tunnel portion  200  of the battery enclosure  128 , such that there is a clear visual demarcation between the tunnel portion  200  and the front portion  202  of the battery enclosure  128 . However, in other embodiments, the front portion  202  may have only a different height or a different width from the tunnel portion  200 , and not both. In still further embodiments, the front portion  202  may have the same height and width as the tunnel portion  200  along an entire length of the battery enclosure  128 , such that there is no distinct visual demarcation between the tunnel portion  200  and the front portion  202 . In still further embodiments, the battery enclosure  128  may gradually increase in height and/or width from the rear of the tunnel portion  200  to the front of the front portion  202 . The battery enclosure  128  may have any shape or configuration that is suitable for housing one or more battery modules and attaching to the tunnel  130  and front brace structure  132  of the electric vehicle. 
       FIG. 5A  is a partial side view of the snowmobile  120 . With reference to  FIG. 5A , in one example, the front portion  202  of the battery enclosure  128  defines a first height  206  and the tunnel portion  202  of battery enclosure  128  defines a second height  208 . As illustrated, the first height  206  and the second height  208  are generally measured along a vertical axis of the snowmobile  120 . In one example, the first height  206  is greater than the second height  208 . In other examples, the first height  206  is less than the second height  208 . In one example, the front portion  202  of battery enclosure  128  defines a first width  210  and the tunnel portion  202  of battery enclosure  128  defines a second width  212 . As shown, the first width  210  and the second width  212  are generally measured along a transverse axis of the snowmobile  120 . In one example, the first width  210  is greater than the second width  212 . In other examples, the first width  210  is less than the second width  212 . 
     In one example, battery pack  124  has an approximate overall length (along a longitudinal axis) of 1563 mm, width of 596 mm, and height of 437 mm. It is recognized that the overall length, width and height of battery pack  124  may vary based on the design of snowmobile  120 . In another example, the approximate overall length of battery pack  124  is in a range of 750-2000 mm, the width is in a range of 450 mm-600 mm, and the height is in a range of 350-550 mm. 
       FIG. 6  is a top front perspective view of the snowmobile  120 . The battery enclosure  128  includes the tunnel portion  200  positioned over rear tunnel  130 , and the front portion  202  positioned at or in proximity to the front of the rear tunnel  130 . 
     In one or more examples, it is recognized that the battery enclosure  128  may provide one single internal cavity for the battery module(s) of the electric battery, or multiple segmented internal cavities that can separate the different battery module(s) of the electric battery. There may be cutouts in the segmenting walls for enabling electrical interconnection of the battery modules. 
     In one example, the battery enclosure  128  may be one overall component made up of a floor and a cover or lid. In another example, the battery enclosure  128  may comprise multiple separate battery enclosure components that each have a floor and cover or lid. The separate enclosure components may comprise two separate enclosure components (for example, the tunnel portion  200  and the front portion  202  may each form a separate distinct battery enclosure component). Alternatively, the battery enclosure  128  could be divided up differently, and into even more than two separate battery enclosure components. The separate battery enclosure components can be positioned on the chassis  122  in the same configuration as described for a single battery enclosure (i.e., in the same position as shown  FIG. 3 ), or the different individual battery enclosure components could be positioned differently in relation to the rear tunnel  130  and front brace structure  132  of the chassis  122 . In one example, the front portion  202  may be positioned in a mid-bay region in horizontal alignment with the rear tunnel  130  and the motor is positioned above the front portion  202  of the battery enclosure  128 . The separate battery enclosure components may be unconnected when installed on an electric vehicle, or the separate battery enclosure components could be connected together with brackets, etc. The electric battery module(s) housed within the separate battery enclosure components would be electrically interconnected. 
     As described above, multiple battery enclosures may be used and operably connected together. The multiple battery enclosures may allow for a more optimal weight distribution. In one example, as batteries get smaller and more powerful it may be beneficial to locate the batteries in a number of enclosures to improve ergonomic design and performance of the electric vehicle. 
     In one example, the battery enclosure  128  may house only the electric battery modules (and possibly wiring/electronics and supporting structures for the battery modules) of the electric battery. In another example, the battery enclosure  128  may house the electric battery as well as other components of the electric vehicle, such as battery management controllers, thermal management systems, a motor assembly, etc. 
       FIG. 7A  is an enlarged partial perspective view of section A of  FIG. 6  showing the battery enclosure  128  front portion  202 . The front portion  202  includes a top surface  300 , a front surface  302 , a first side surface  304 , a second side surface  306 , and a bottom surface  308 . It should be noted that the top surface  300  is not limited to a single flat surface. For example, the top surface  300  may be formed from multiple surfaces disposed at the top of the battery enclosure  128 . There may also or instead be multiple top surfaces of the battery enclosure  128 . Similar comments apply to the front surface  302 , the first side surface  304 , the second side surface  306  and the bottom surface  308 . 
     The front brace structure  132  may be coupled to the battery enclosure  128  at one or more of the top surface  300 , the front surface  302 , the first side surface  304 , the second side surface  306  and the bottom surface  308 . In one example, the front brace structure  132  is coupled to battery enclosure  128  at least partially at the top surface  300 . In another example, the front brace structure  132  is coupled to the battery enclosure  128  at least partially at the front surface  302 . In another example, the front brace structure  132  is coupled to the battery enclosure  128  at least partially at a front edge  330  formed by the top surface  300  and the front surface  302 . The front brace structure  132  may also or instead be coupled to the battery enclosure  128  at the bottom surface  308 . 
     In one example, the front brace structure  132  is rigidly coupled to the battery enclosure  128  at four connection points for transferring load to the battery enclosure  128 . The front brace structure  132  includes the first top brace  134  and the second top brace  136 . The first top brace  134  includes a first end  320  and a second end  322 . The second top brace  136  includes a first end  324  and a second end  326 . The first top brace  134  is connected to battery enclosure  128  at the first end  320 . In one example, the first end  320  of first top brace  134  is connected to both the top surface  300  and the front surface  302  at the front edge  330  (at a first connection location  332 ). The second top brace  136  is connected to the battery enclosure  128  at the first end  324 . In one example, the first end  324  of the second top brace  136  is connected to both the top surface  300  and the front side surface  302  at the front edge  330  (at a second connection location  334 ). In one example, the first connection location  332  is spaced apart from the second connection location  334  along the front edge  330 , identified as top space  336 . The top space  336  is shown as distance between the first connection location  332  and the second connection location  334  along a lateral axis of the snowmobile  120 . 
     In one example, the second end  322  of first top brace  134  is connected to the front surface  302  and/or to the bottom surface  308  of the battery enclosure  128  (at a third connection location  342 ) via one or more linkages. In one example, the second end  326  of second top brace  136  is connected to the front surface  302  and/or to the bottom surface  308  (at a fourth connection location  344 ) via one or more linkages. Optionally, the third connection location  342  and/or the fourth connection location  344  is at a front bottom edge  340  formed by the front surface  302  and the bottom surface  308  of the battery enclosure  128 . In one example, the third connection location  342  is spaced apart from the fourth connection location  344  along the front bottom edge  340 , identified as bottom space  346 . The bottom space  346  is shown as distance between the third connection location  342  and the fourth connection location  344  along a lateral axis of the snowmobile  120 . In one example, bottom space  346  is wider than top space  336 . In another example, top space  336  is wider than bottom space  346 . In yet another example, the top space  336  is approximately equal to the bottom space  346 . 
     In one example, the front brace structure  132  includes a cross brace structure  350 . The cross brace  350  extends between the first top brace  134  and the second top brace  136 . The cross brace  350  provides bracing between the first top brace  134  and the second top brace  136  at the second end  322  and the second end  326 . In one example, the cross brace  350  is connected to the second end  322  at a joint member  352 . The cross brace  350  is connected to the second end  326  at a joint member  354 . 
       FIG. 7B  is an enlarged partial view of the fourth connection location  344 , indicated at  321 . Referring to  FIG. 7B , the second top brace  136  is connected to the battery enclosure  128  at the second end  326  through the joint member  354  and a mechanical linkage  325 . 
     As outlined above, the front portion  202  of the battery enclosure  128  is coupled to the front brace structure  132 . In the example shown in  FIG. 7A , the first top brace  134  and the second top brace  136  of the front brace structure  132  are connected to front portion  202  of the battery enclosure  128 . More specifically, in the example shown, the four connection points  332 , 334 , 342 , 344  provide a secure and rigid connection between the front brace structure  132  and battery enclosure  128 . This provides for the transferring of loads between suspension system  126  and the battery pack  124 . The connection points  332 ,  334 ,  342 ,  344  may implement, inter alia, mechanical fasteners (e.g., nuts, bolts, screws and rivets), welds, adhesives, snap-fit connections and any combination thereof to form rigid connections. 
     It is recognized that other design configurations and connections may exist between the front brace structure  132  and the battery enclosure  128 , in order for the battery enclosure  128  to be connected to and receive loads from suspension system  126 . In one example, there are fewer than four connection points between front brace structure  132  and the battery enclosure  128 . In one example, there are more than four connection points between the front brace structure  132  and battery enclosure  128 . The surfaces and/or edges of the battery enclosure  128  on which the connection points are located are also not limited. For example, the front brace structure may also or instead be coupled to the first side surface  304  and/or to the second side surface  306 . The connection points may be fixed or removable. The structure of the front brace structure  132  may take on many different forms and remain within the scope of the present disclosure. 
     In one example, loads or forces imparted by the steering system  150 , and more specifically by the steering column  152 , of the electric vehicle are received by the battery enclosure  128  of the battery pack  124 . These loads are partially absorbed by the battery enclosure  128  and/or transferred to the vehicle&#39;s center of mass and/or chassis  122  through the battery pack  124 . 
       FIG. 11  is an enlarged partial perspective view of the snowmobile  120 . In the example shown in  FIG. 11 , the steering system  150  comprises a steering mount  430  that includes a first side mount  452  and a second side mount  454  attached to the front portion  202  of the battery enclosure  128 . The first side mount  452  and/or the second side mount  454  may implement, inter alia, one or more mechanical fasteners, welds, adhesives, snap-fit connections and any combination thereof to rigidly connect to the battery enclosure. A member  424  extends between first side mount  452  and second side mount  454 , and operates to hold the steering column  152  to the battery enclosure  128 . The member  424  also allows steering column  152  to rotate during operation of the steering system  150 . 
     In one example, the member  424  includes a pipe member having an axis aligned with an axis of the steering column  152 . In operation, the steering column  152  passes through the pipe member and is supported by the pipe member. 
     As the operator of the snowmobile  120  steers and maneuvers the vehicle, loads are transferred from the steering column  152  to the steering mount  430 , which in turn transfers loads from the steering column  152  to the battery pack  124 , and specifically the battery enclosure  128 . The battery enclosure  128  may absorb some of those loads and/or transfer the loads from the steering column  152  to the vehicle&#39;s center of mass and/or the chassis  122 . 
       FIG. 12  is a partial side view of a snowmobile  500 , according to one example of the present disclosure. Snowmobile  500  is similar to the snowmobile  120  previously detailed herein. Snowmobile  500  includes battery pack  124  having battery enclosure  128 . 
     The battery enclosure  128  includes the tunnel portion  200  and the front portion  202 . The tunnel portion  200  includes a tunnel portion front end  506  and a tunnel portion back end  508 . The tunnel portion  200  is located over and secured to the chassis rear tunnel  130 . The front portion  202  is located near the front of the snowmobile  500 , at the tunnel portion front end  506 . 
     The snowmobile  500  includes a seat  510  and a backrest  512 . As illustrated, the snowmobile seat  510  is a straddle-seat that is to be straddled by a rider, i.e., with a leg positioned on either side of the seat  510 . The seat includes a cushion  522 . 
     The battery pack  124  provides structural support for the snowmobile  500  seating, which may comprise one or both of a snowmobile seat  510  and backrest  512 . In one example, the snowmobile seat  510  and backrest  512  are mounted directly to the battery pack enclosure  128 . In one example, the seat  510  is mounted to the battery pack enclosure  128  via brackets (not shown) such that a space is provided between the tunnel portion  200  of the battery pack enclosure  128  and the seat  510 . In another example, the seat  510  is mounted to the battery pack enclosure  128  such that at least a portion of a bottom surface of the seat  510  is in direct contact with a surface of the tunnel portion  200  of the battery pack enclosure  128 . The seat  510  is connected to the tunnel portion  200  of the battery enclosure  128 , and extends from the front portion  202  at the tunnel portion front end  506  to the tunnel portion back end  508 . Battery enclosure  128  is a structural element of the snowmobile that supports seat  510  and optionally the backrest  512 . Further, the battery enclosure  128  tunnel portion  200  receives loads transmitted from the seat  510  and partially absorbs and/or transfers those loads to the vehicle&#39;s center of mass and/or the chassis  122  due to one or more riders positioned on the seat  510  or the result of operation of the snowmobile  500  over various snow terrain. 
     In some examples, heat generated by the battery pack  124  may be transferred through the battery enclosure  128  and into the seat  510 . This heat may be generated during discharge of the battery pack  124  to power an electric motor and/or other systems of the snowmobile  500 . The heat may be transferred passively to the seat  510  via radiation, conduction and/or convection, for example. Transfer of the heat into the seat  510  may warm the cushion  522  and, optionally, an operator seated on the cushion  522 . In this way, by mounting the seat  510  onto the battery pack  124 , heat generated by the battery pack  124  may provide a more pleasant experience for the operator in cold conditions. This heat might otherwise be lost into the ambient environment. Further, because an operator may straddle the battery pack  124  when riding the snowmobile  500 , heat generated by the battery pack  124  may radiate out the lateral sides of the battery enclosure  128  and warm the legs of the operator. 
     The seat backrest  512  is supported by the battery enclosure  128  tunnel portion  200 . In one example, the seat backrest  512  is mounted directly to the battery enclosure  128  at the tunnel portion back end  508 . The seat back rest  512  includes a bracket  524 . The bracket  524  is generally L-shaped, including a generally vertical first leg  526  and a generally horizontal second leg  528 . A cushion of the backrest  512  may be attached to the first leg  526 . The second leg  528  is attached to the tunnel portion  200 . The seat  510  may extend rearward beyond a top surface of the battery enclosure tunnel portion  200  and be supported by the second leg  528 . Seat loads (e.g., by a rider during operation of the snowmobile) are received by the battery pack  124 , and specifically the battery enclosure  128 , via connection points between the seat  510  and the battery pack  124 . Additionally, seat loads are transferred during use from the seat backrest  512  to the battery pack  124  at locations where the seat backrest  512  is connected to the battery pack  124 . 
     In one example, the seat  510  is rigidly fastened at four places onto the battery pack  124 . There may be two plastic hooks (not shown) on the top surface of the tunnel portion back end  508  of the battery enclosure  128  that mate with corresponding slots located on the bottom of the seat  510  (i.e., the seat pan). Additionally, there may be two aluminum tabs on a fore portion of the seat pan (one on each side) that fasten the seat  510  to the battery enclosure  128 . In one example, the seat  510  is rigidly fastened to the battery pack  124  via the seat pan using screw holes with threaded inserts on the lid of the battery enclosure  128 . Other types of connections between the seat  510  and the battery enclosure  128  are also possible. 
     In one example, the seat backrest  512  is fully supported by the battery enclosure  128 . In contrast, typical backrests are mounted directly to a snowmobile chassis. With the battery enclosure  128  being used to fully support the seat backrest  512 , additional storage area is available on the rear tunnel  130  for cargo or other utility use. In one example, the backrest  512  is a separate component independently and directly attached to the battery pack  124  using one or more mechanical fasteners, welds, adhesives, snap-fit connections and any combination thereof, for example. In another example, the seat backrest  512  is at least partially part of or an extension of the seat  510 . 
     Loads imparted on the snowmobile seating (i.e., one or both of the seat  510  and the backrest  512 ), are received directly by the battery pack  124 , and specifically the battery enclosure  128 . The battery enclosure  128  may absorb some of those loads and/or transfer the loads from the seating to the vehicle&#39;s center of mass and/or the chassis  130 . 
     In operation, as the snowmobile  120 ,  500  is driven across a varied terrain, loads are transferred from the suspension system  126  (e.g., the first suspension leg  138  and the second suspension leg  140 ) through the front brace structure  132  (e.g., through the corresponding first top brace  134  and the second top brace  136 ) to the battery enclosure  128 . Likewise, loads are transferred from the seating (e.g., the seat  510  and the backrest  512 ) and the steering system  150  to the battery enclosure  128 . The battery enclosure  128  acts as a structural element, and after receiving the loads then transfers the loads through the body of the battery enclosure  128  to the vehicle&#39;s center of mass and/or to the rear tunnel  130 . In one or more examples described herein, loads are transferred to the rear tunnel  130  since the center of mass of the vehicle is located at the rear tunnel  130 . As such, it is recognized that the loads are transferred to the center of mass located within the rear tunnel  130 . 
       FIG. 5B  is a block diagram illustrating a load path of a snowmobile (e.g., the snowmobile  120 ,  500 ), according to one example of the present disclosure. The load path is also illustrated in  FIG. 5A . The load path is illustrated using arrows  220 ,  222 ,  224 ,  226  and  228 . In one example, as the snowmobile  120 ,  500  moves over a given terrain or snow profile, load is transferred from the suspension system  126  (via the first suspension leg  138  and the second suspension leg  140 ) to the front brace structure  132  (via the first top brace  134  and the second top brace  136 ); load is then transferred from the front brace structure  132  (via first the top brace structure  134  and second the top brace structure  136 ) to the battery enclosure  128  (e.g., to the front surface  302  of the battery enclosure  128 ); and the load is then transferred, at least partially, from the battery enclosure  128  (via the front portion  202  and the tunnel portion  200 ) to the chassis  122  including the rear tunnel  130 . 
     Traditional electric powersport vehicles, such as combustion engine snowmobiles, often have curved steering columns and/or complex linkages connecting the steering column to their steering assembly. This is a result of the steering column having to avoid interference with the combustion engine, which is typically housed in the front portion of the snowmobile. 
     In some embodiments, an electric vehicle includes a battery pack design that accommodates a straight steering column. Such battery pack designs may leverage the modular nature of battery pack components. For example, battery modules and/or other components of a battery pack may be arranged within the battery pack to form a slot to receive the steering column. 
     It should be noted that battery packs and enclosures without a slot for receiving a steering column are also contemplated and are included within the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Reference is now made to  FIG. 8 .  FIG. 8  is a partial front view of the battery enclosure  128  and the chassis  122  of the snowmobile  120 . In one example, the battery enclosure  128  front portion  202  may define a slot  162 . The slot  162  is illustrated as a substantially straight channel or groove in the front portion  202  of the battery enclosure  128 . The slot  162  extends downward from the top surface  300  of the battery enclosure  128  for receiving the steering column  152  of the snowmobile  120 . In this way, the steering column  152  is able to at least partially pass through the battery enclosure  128 . The straight slot  162  defined within the battery enclosure  128  enables the electric vehicle to use a linear, substantially straight, steering column  152  and a relatively uncomplex connection between the steering column  152  and the steering assembly  156 . 
     In one example, the slot  162  extends from the top surface  300  of battery enclosure  128  to a front surface  302  of the battery enclosure  128 . The slot  162  may be at least partially formed by the front surface  302 . In another example, the slot  162  extends downwards from the top surface  300  of the battery enclosure  128  to the bottom surface  308  of the battery enclosure  128 . The slot  162  may at least partially pass through the bottom surface  308 . 
     In one example, the slot  162  is generally geometrically shaped. For example, the slot  162  can be partially circular, oval or square shaped in cross-section. In other examples, the slot  162  is not geometrically shaped. The slot  162  may have an open side along its length. In other embodiments, the slot  162  can be defined as a wholly or partially enclosed slot extending through the battery enclosure  128 . In one or more examples, the slot  162  may take on the form of a tunnel, pipe, or tubular member. 
       FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional view of the slot  162  taken along the line  9 - 9  in  FIG. 8 . In one example, the slot is generally U-shaped in cross-section. The slot  162  is defined by a first side wall  400 , a second side wall  402 , and a bottom surface  404 . Additional walls and/or surfaces may also be present in other slot designs. In one example, the bottom surface  404  has an angle along its length that generally matches an angle of the steering column  152 .  FIG. 10  is a diagram illustrating an angle of the bottom surface  404  relative to a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile  120  indicated at  410 . With reference to  FIG. 10 , the bottom surface  404  of the slot  162  extends at an angle of between 30 degrees and 60 degrees with respect to the horizontal longitudinal axis  410 . In one example, the substantially horizontal longitudinal axis  410  of the electric snowmobile is defined by a top surface of rear tunnel  130 . 
     A width  412  of the slot  162  is defined by the distance between the first sidewall  400  and the second sidewall  402 . In one example, the width  412  of slot  162  is between 30 millimeters and 60 millimeters. The width of slot  162  may vary along its length. In one example, the width of slot  162  is wider at a top end of the slot  162  than at a bottom end of slot  162 . In another example, the width  412  of slot  162  is substantially constant along its length with first sidewall  400  being substantially parallel to second sidewall  402 . 
     Referring back to  FIG. 8 , in one example, the slot  162  divides the front portion  202  of battery enclosure  128  into two sides, defined as a front portion first side  420  and a front portion second side  422 . In one example, the slot  162  is positioned substantially centrally with respect to the first side surface  304  and the second side surface  306 , such that the slot  162  divides the front portion  202  of the battery enclosure into two halves. Alternatively, the slot  162  may not be positioned centrally, such that the front portion first side  420  and front portion second side  422  are of different sizes. In operation, the front portion first side  420  and the front portion second side  422  each house one or more electric battery modules. In one example, the front portion first side  420  and the front portion second side  422  each house a stack of battery modules. In other examples, at least one of the front portion first side  420  and the front portion second side  422  contain or house one or more components of the battery pack  124  other than a battery module, such as a battery controller and/or heating/cooling ducts, for example. 
     As described above, the slot  162  is configured such that a substantially straight steering column  152  passes through the slot  162 . The steering system  150  includes the steering mount  430  that operably couples the steering column  152  to the battery enclosure  128  to support the upper portion of the steering column  152 . In some examples, the steering mount  430  couples to the steering column  152  to the top surface  300  of the battery enclosure. The first side mount  452  is attached on the front portion first side  420  at a top end of the slot  162  and the second side mount  454  is attached on the front portion second side  422  on an opposite side of the slot  162  from the first side mount  452 . The steering mount  430  allows the steering column  152  to operate within the slot  162  while providing structural support to the steering column  152  within steering system  150 . For example, the steering mount  430  may provide support and structural stiffness to the steering column  162 . The steering mount  430  is coupled to the battery enclosure  128  at a position that enables the steering column  152  to be received within the slot  162 . The steering mount  430  may provide a structural stiffness to the snowmobile handlebars, and in turn, an improved experience to a snowmobile operator. The steering mount  430  may also transfer loads from the steering system  150  to the battery enclosure  128 . 
       FIG. 13  is a partial side view of a snowmobile  600 , according to one example of the present disclosure. The snowmobile  600  is similar to the snowmobile  120  and snowmobile  500  previously described herein.  FIG. 13  depicts the battery pack  124  positioned on the chassis  122 . An electric battery is housed within the battery enclosure  128  of the battery pack  124 . The electric battery comprises multiple electric battery modules  714 . Both the tunnel portion  200  and the front portion  202  of battery enclosure  128  contain the battery modules  714  to power snowmobile  120 . 
     The snowmobile  600  illustrates one example of the relative locations of the battery pack  124  and an electric motor assembly  610  on the snowmobile chassis  122 . By arranging the locations of the battery pack  124  and the electric motor assembly  610  appropriately, the location of center of mass  612  can be improved. This provides for a better snowmobile ride experience and better snowmobile performance. For example, too much weight forward can result in poor snowmobile traction and acceleration. With too much weight backward, there can be a loss of snowmobile steering and control. As such, it is desirable to locate the center of mass and weight distribution to improve both snowmobile control and performance. 
     The snowmobile  600  includes a rear portion of the chassis  122  having rear tunnel  130 . A portion of the battery enclosure  128  is mounted on the rear tunnel  130 . The electric motor assembly  610  is mounted below the battery enclosure  128  and adjacent a front side  620  of the rear tunnel  130 . The chassis  122  further defines a mid-bay  630 . The mid-bay  630  is located between the rear tunnel  130  and the front brace structure  132 . In some embodiments, the mid-bay  630  may form part of the front brace structure  132 . In one example, the electric motor assembly  610  is positioned within the mid-bay  630 . The electric motor assembly  610  includes a drive shaft operably aligned with the snowmobile drive transmission  640 . The drive transmission  640  may include a drive linkage to drivingly couple to the electric motor assembly  610 . In one example, the drive transmission  640  is a belt drive system and/or a chain drive system. As such, it is efficient to have the motor assembly  610  located within the mid-bay  630  in the lower front area of chassis  122 . In this configuration, the motor assembly  610  and drive transmission  640  are efficiently mounted right next to each other on the snowmobile chassis  122 . 
     Further examples of the electric motor assembly  610  being within the mid-bay  630  is described in further detail later in this specification. 
     The battery pack  124  includes a tunnel battery pack  710  and a mid-bay battery pack  712 . The tunnel battery pack  710  is generally corresponds to the tunnel portion  200  of the battery pack  124  and the mid-bay battery pack  712  generally corresponds to the front portion  202  of the battery pack  124 . Each battery pack  710  and  712  includes a plurality of the battery modules  714 . The battery modules  714  are one of the heaviest design elements of snowmobile  600 . The location of battery packs  710  and  712 , and therefore distribution of the battery modules  714  over the chassis  122 , aids in desired weight distribution across the snowmobile  600 . The tunnel battery pack  710  is located above the rear tunnel  130  (and below the snowmobile seat). The mid-bay battery pack  712  is located above the front end of rear tunnel  130  within mid-bay  630  and above the electric motor assembly  610 . This may provide a shifted and improved location of the center of mass  612 , resulting in a snowmobile with improved weight distribution and balance, and overall snowmobile performance. 
     The battery pack  124  includes the battery enclosure  128  having a lid or cover and floor. The battery cover operates primarily to protect the battery modules and as a structural element to transfer loads from the suspension system  126  to the snowmobile chassis  122 . The battery pack floor primarily operates to support the battery modules  714  within the battery pack  124 . 
       FIGS. 14 to 17  illustrate one example of the battery pack  124 , including the battery modules  714 . For ease of illustration, the battery pack  124  is shown with the battery enclosure lid removed for a view of the internal structure of the battery pack  124 . 
       FIG. 14  is a front top perspective view of the battery pack  124 , according to one example of the present disclosure.  FIG. 14  shows the battery modules  714  that make up an electric battery within the battery pack  124 . The battery pack  124  includes the battery enclosure  128  that houses the battery modules  714 . The battery enclosure  128  includes a battery pack cover or lid  716  (shown removed) and a battery pack support floor  718 . The battery pack support floor  718  holds and supports the battery modules  714 . Further, the battery modules  714  are securely retained within the battery pack  124  by a battery support structure  720 . 
     The battery pack  124  comprises a plurality of battery stacks  740 , where each stack is retained within a cartridge assembly  742 . Each battery stack  740  is made up of two or more battery modules and retained within a cartridge assembly  742 . In one example, the tunnel battery pack  710  is made up of four battery stacks  744 . Each battery stack  744  includes two battery modules  714  stacked together within a cartridge assembly  742 . As such, the tunnel battery pack  710  includes eight total battery modules  714 . The battery stacks  744  are positioned on the battery pack support floor  718 . The battery support structure  720  aids in maintaining each battery stack  744  in a desired location on support floor  718 . The battery support structure  720  operates to maintain a desired spacing between individual battery stacks  740 , and also maintain spacing between the battery stacks  740  and the battery enclosure. 
     In one example, a mid-bay battery pack  712  is made up of two battery stacks  748 . One battery stack  748  is disposed in the front portion first side  420  and the other battery stack  748  is disposed in the front portion second side  422 . Each battery stack  748  includes three battery modules  714  stacked together within a cartridge assembly  742 . As such, the mid-bay battery stack  712  includes six total battery modules  714 . The battery stacks  748  are positioned on battery pack support floor  718 . Battery support structure  720  aids in maintaining each battery stack  748  in a desired location on support floor  718 . Battery support structure  720  operates to maintain a desired spacing between individual battery stacks  748 , and also maintain spacing between the battery stacks  748  and the battery enclosure  128 . In one example, the battery support structure  420  is part of the battery enclosure  128 . In one example, the spacing between battery stacks  748  located within mid-bay battery pack  712  is also dependent on the space requirements for slot  162  to accommodate the snowmobile steering column. 
     In one example, the battery support structure  720  is made of a rigid material, such as a rigid polymeric material. In one example, individual members of battery support structure  720  are generally tubular shaped members. 
     In one example, each battery module  714  is generally rectangular shaped. The battery modules  714  within the battery stacks  744  are orientated in a direction different than the battery modules  714  positioned within battery stacks  744 . In one example, the battery modules  714  within battery stack  744  are orientated perpendicular to an orientation of the battery modules  714  contained within battery stacks  748 . In other embodiments, all of the battery modules  714  are oriented in the same direction. 
       FIG. 15  is a top view of the battery pack  124  of  FIG. 14 , further illustrating the battery support structure  720  and the battery stacks  740 .  FIG. 16  is a side view of the battery pack  124  further illustrating the tunnel battery pack  710  and the mid-bay battery pack  712 .  FIG. 17  is a front view of the battery pack  124 , further illustrating the mid-bay battery stack  748 . 
     Each battery module  714  contained within the battery pack  124  is made of one or more battery cells. In one example, the battery modules are lightweight ‘pouch” battery modules, where each battery module includes two or more pouch battery cells. The battery cells may be prismatic battery cells. In one example, the prismatic battery cells are lithium-ion prismatic battery cells. One or more examples of a battery stack, a battery cartridge, battery module and battery cooling panel assembly, including pouch battery modules and pouch battery cells, suitable for use in the present electric vehicle are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/091,777 titled Battery Cooling Panel for Electric Vehicles filed Nov. 6, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     In some embodiments, the positions of a battery pack, an electric motor and/or a transmission on a chassis of an electric vehicle are selected to provide a more space-efficient design, better manage loads from the electric motor, and/or to improve the location of the center of mass of the electric vehicle. In one example, an electric vehicle includes a chassis defining a rear portion and a front portion. A transmission may be mounted to a rear portion of the chassis and a battery pack may be mounted on top of the rear portion of the chassis. An electric motor may be mounted below the battery enclosure and between a front side of the rear portion of the chassis and a front end of the electric vehicle. In this way, the transmission and the electric motor may be proximate to each other underneath the battery pack to conserve space. 
     Further, the electric motor may be positioned generally horizontally relative to the transmission. In one example, the electric vehicle includes a transmission drive shaft and a motor drive shaft spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the electric vehicle. The motor drive shaft may be coupled to the transmission drive shaft via a drive linkage such as a drive belt, for example. A portion of the drive linkage extending between the transmission drive shaft and the motor drive shaft may be substantially horizontal (e.g., substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the electric vehicle). 
     A transmission plate may be attached to the electric motor to provide structural stability to the electric motor. The transmission plate may be connected at a first end to the rear portion of the chassis and at a second end to the front portion of the chassis in a generally horizontal manner. In this way, the transmission plate may be simply supported along a longitudinal axis of the electric vehicle. The transmission plate may also be supported parallel to the portion of the drive linkage extending between the transmission drive shaft and the motor drive shaft. This configuration of the transmission plate may improve rigidity and enable the transmission plate to better manage tensile and rotational loads from the electric motor and drive belt. 
       FIGS. 18 to 22  illustrate one example of an electric motor assembly  610 .  FIG. 18  is a partial perspective view of the electric motor assembly  610  positioned within a snowmobile. The electric motor assembly  610  is mounted below the battery enclosure  128  and adjacent to a front side  620  of the rear tunnel  130 . In this way, the electric motor assembly  610  is positioned in front of the rear tunnel  130 . The motor assembly  610  is also positioned generally horizontally relative to the longitudinally extending rear tunnel  130 . 
     Mounting the electric motor assembly  610  below the battery pack  124  can help provide more space for the battery pack  124 . For example, the battery pack  124  may extend along the length of the rear tunnel  130  without being limited in size by the electric motor assembly  610  and/or other components. This may enable larger battery packs with greater capacities to be used. Further, mounting the battery pack  124  on top of the rear tunnel  130  may shift the center of mass of the snowmobile towards the rear suspension, which may improve traction and overall ride quality. 
     The snowmobile chassis  122  includes the rear tunnel  130 . The chassis  122  also includes a mid-bay and the front brace structure  132 , the mid-bay being located between the rear tunnel  130  and the front brace structure  132 . The electric motor assembly  610  is positioned within the mid-bay. 
     The electric motor assembly  610  is shown coupled to a drive transmission  800 . The drive transmission  800  may transfer power from the electric motor assembly  610  to an endless track of the snowmobile. In one example, the electric motor assembly  610  is coupled to the drive transmission  800  via a belt drive system  810 . A chain drive system may also or instead be used. The electric motor assembly  610  is positioned substantially horizontally relative to the drive transmission  800 . For example, the electric motor assembly  610  and the drive transmission  800  may occupy the same horizontal plane and/or be aligned along a longitudinal axis of the snowmobile. 
       FIG. 19  is an enlarged partial perspective view of the motor assembly  610 .  FIG. 19  further illustrates the position of electric motor assembly  610  on the chassis  122 . A transmission plate  812  is positioned between the belt drive system  810  and the motor assembly  610 . In one example, the transmission plate  812  is positioned substantially parallel to a first side edge  814  of the rear tunnel  130 . The transmission plate  812  includes a first end  820  and a second end  822 , which spaced apart along a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile. The transmission plate  812  is attached at the first end  820  to the first side edge  814  of rear tunnel  130 , and at the second end  822  to a component of the front brace structure  132 . In this way, the transmission plate  812  is simply supported by the chassis  122  at its first end  820  and its second end  822 . Additionally, the transmission plate  812  is attached to a front plate  824  of the motor assembly  610 . The second end  822  of the transmission plate  812  is coupled to the front brace structure at connection points  813 , which may be bolt holes that correspond to bolt holes on the font brace structure  132  to form a rigid bolted connection. A rigid bolted connection may also be implemented between the first end  820  of the transmission plate  812  and the first side edge  814  of rear tunnel  130 , and/or between the transmission plate  812  and the front plate  824  of the motor assembly  610 . Other forms of rigid connections, including welds, snap fit connections and/or friction fit connections, for example, may also be implemented in the connections to the transmission plate  812 . 
     The configuration and coupling of the transmission plate  812  to the chassis  122  may provide a rigid support for the motor assembly  810  and improved handling of transmission loads from the belt drive system  810 . For example, tensile and rotational loads from the motor assembly  610  and belt drive system  810  may be managed without bending or other deformation of the transmission plate  812 . The configuration and coupling of the transmission plate  812  to the chassis  122  may also allow for a lighter transmission plate since the transmission plate  812  is supported at both ends. In contrast, if only one end of the transmission plate  812  is connected to the chassis  122 , the significant bending could occur do to loads from the motor assembly  610  and belt drive system  810 . 
       FIG. 20  is a partial side view of the electric motor assembly  610 . In one example, the electric motor assembly  610  is mounted proximate to the drive transmission  800  by the transmission plate  812 . The electric motor assembly  610  includes a motor drive shaft  830 . The drive transmission  800  includes a transmission drive shaft  832 . The motor drive shaft  830  and the transmission drive shaft  832  extend parallel to each other along transverse axes. The transmission drive shaft  832  and the motor drive shaft  830  are spaced apart from each other along a longitudinal axis of the electric vehicle. The motor drive shaft  830  is operably coupled to the transmission drive shaft  832  via the belt drive system  810 . 
     The transmission plate  812  includes a U-shaped slot  809  (or opening) that extends downwards from a top side of the transmission plate  812 . The electric motor assembly  610  drive shaft  830  extends through the U-shaped slot  809 . In one example, the electric motor assembly  610  is attached to both sides of the U-shaped slot  809  at an interior of the transmission plate  812  such that the motor drive shaft  830  extends through the U-shaped slot  809  from an interior to an exterior of the U-shaped slot. The U-shaped slot  809  may aid in mounting of the motor assembly  610  to the chassis  122  by enabling the motor assembly  610  to be lowered downwards into position in the mid-bay, with the drive shaft  830  positioned within the U-shaped slot  809 . The electric motor assembly  610  may then be coupled to the transmission plate  812 . An additional plate (not shown) may cover the U-shaped slot  809  once the motor assembly  610  is positioned within the snowmobile  120  that may aid in managing torque loads from the motor. 
     In one example, the electric motor assembly  610  includes an electric motor drive gear coupled to the motor drive shaft  830  and the drive transmission  800  includes a transmission gear  860  coupled to the transmission drive shaft  832 . The belt drive system  810  includes a drive belt  811 . The drive belt  811  is connected between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear  860 . In other embodiments, another drive linkage such as a drive chain, for example, may be connected between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear  860 . In some examples, an angle of a portion of the drive belt  811  extending between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear  860  with respect to the substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile is equal to or less than 20% (or 11.3 degrees) and equal to or greater than −20% (or −11.3 degrees). As illustrated, this portion of the drive belt  811  is a top portion of the drive belt  811  connected directly between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear  860 . A drive belt idler pulley  862  contacts a bottom surface of the bottom portion of the drive belt  811 . 
     In other embodiments, the drive belt idler pulley  862  may contact a top portion of the drive belt  811  and the bottom portion of the drive belt  811  may be connected directly between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear  860 . An angle of the bottom portion of the drive belt  811  with respect to a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile may be equal to or less than 20% (or 11.3 degrees) and equal to or greater than −20% (or −11.3 degrees). 
     Advantageously, positioning the electric motor assembly  610  substantially horizontally to the drive transmission  810  may reduce the distance between the electric motor assembly  610  and the drive transmission  810 , thereby potentially providing an efficient utilization of space and/or a reduction in the complexity and cost of the belt drive system  810 . Further, positioning the electric motor assembly  610  and the drive transmission  810  such that the top portion of the drive belt  811  extends substantially parallel a horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile helps ensure that some loads exerted on the transmission plate  812  are also along the horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile. The transmission plate  812  is supported at either end  820 ,  822  along this longitudinal axis, and may therefore better manage loads from the belt drive system  810  and electric motor assembly  610 . 
       FIG. 21  and  FIG. 22  further illustrate the electric motor assembly  610 .  FIG. 21  is another partial side view of the electric motor assembly  610 , and  FIG. 22  is a partial perspective view of the electric motor assembly  610 . The electric motor assembly  610  is shown positioned immediately adjacent the front side  620  of rear tunnel  130 . In the embodiment shown, the electric motor assembly  610  does not extend the entire width of the rear tunnel  130 . As such, the electric motor  850  may remain substantially unsupported, or supported by sheet metal with minimal structural support, at the end opposite from the motor drive shaft  830 . The electric motor assembly  610  incudes a motor  850  coupled to an inverter  852 . The inverter  852  is directly coupled to the motor  850 , and contained within a common housing  854 . The electric motor assembly  610  having the inverter  852  integrated into the same housing provides for efficient locating of the motor assembly  610  in the chassis mid-bay in front of the rear tunnel  130 . One motor assembly including a motor coupled to an inverter, suitable for use in the present electric vehicle, is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 63/135,466 (Attorney Docket No. T1670.109.101/TPA013), titled DRIVE UNIT FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE, filed Jan. 8, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     Although specific examples have been illustrated and described herein, a variety of alternate and/or equivalent implementations may be substituted for the specific examples shown and described without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. This disclosure is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the specific examples discussed herein. 
     It should be noted that, as used herein, the phrase “at least one of A and B” includes any combination of A and/or B. For example, the phrase “at least one of A and B” encompasses only A, only B, and A and B together. Similar comments apply to the phrase “at least two of A, B and C”. 
     Various example embodiments of the present disclosure will now be provided. 
     Example Embodiment 1 
     An electric vehicle comprising, an electric motor, a battery pack comprising: one or more battery modules for providing power to the electric motor; and a battery enclosure housing the one or more battery modules, the battery enclosure being a structural element of the electric vehicle for receiving loads from at least two of a suspension system, a seat and a steering system of the electric vehicle. 
     Example Embodiment 2 
     The electric vehicle of example embodiment 1, the battery enclosure transferring the loads received, at least partially, to a center of mass of the electric vehicle. 
     Example Embodiment 3 
     The electric vehicle of any one of example embodiments 1 or 2, the battery enclosure transferring the loads received, at least partially, to a chassis of the electric vehicle. 
     Example Embodiment 4 
     The electric vehicle of any one of example embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the battery enclosure defines a front portion and a rear portion, the front portion receiving loads from a front suspension of the electric vehicle. 
     Example Embodiment 5 
     The electric vehicle of any one of example embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the battery enclosure defines a front portion and a rear portion, the front portion receiving loads from the steering system and the rear portion receiving loads from the seat. 
     Example Embodiment 6 
     The electric vehicle of any one of example embodiments 4 or 5, wherein the electric vehicle comprises a chassis defining a tunnel portion and a front brace structure, the tunnel portion connected to the rear portion of the battery enclosure and the front brace structure connected to the front portion of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 7 
     The electric vehicle of any one of example embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the electric vehicle is a snowmobile. 
     Example Embodiment 8 
     A battery enclosure for an electric vehicle, the battery enclosure being a structural element of the electric vehicle and comprising: a rear portion adapted for connection to a rear portion of a chassis of the electric vehicle, the rear portion of the battery enclosure configured to receive loads from a seat of the electric vehicle; and a front portion adapted for connection to a front portion of the chassis of the electric vehicle, the front portion of the battery enclosure configured to receive loads from a front suspension of the electric vehicle. 
     Example Embodiment 9 
     The battery enclosure of example embodiment 8, wherein the battery enclosure is configured to transfer loads received from the seat and the front suspension, at least partially, to a center of mass of the electric vehicle. 
     Example Embodiment 10 
     The battery enclosure of one of example embodiments 8 or 9, wherein the battery enclosure is configured to transfer loads received from the seat and the front suspension, at least partially, to a chassis of the electric vehicle. 
     Example Embodiment 11 
     The battery enclosure of example embodiment 9, the front portion further adapted for receiving loads from a steering system of the electric vehicle and transferring those loads, at least partially, to a center of mass of the electric vehicle. 
     Example Embodiment 12 
     The battery enclosure of any one of example embodiments 8 to 11, wherein the electric vehicle is a snowmobile. 
     Example Embodiment 13 
     The battery enclosure of example embodiment 12, wherein the rear portion of the battery enclosure is adapted for connection to a tunnel of the snowmobile, and the front portion of the battery enclosure is adapted for connection to a front brace structure of the snowmobile. 
     Example Embodiment 14 
     A snowmobile comprising: a chassis that comprises: a rear tunnel; and a front brace structure adapted to receive loads from a front suspension system of the snowmobile; a battery enclosure defining a tunnel portion and a front portion, the tunnel portion being connected to the rear tunnel of the chassis and the front portion being connected to the front brace structure of the chassis; wherein the battery enclosure receives loads from the front suspension system of the snowmobile through the front brace structure and transfers the loads from the front suspension system to at least one of the rear tunnel and a center of mass of the electric vehicle through a body of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 15 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 14, wherein the battery enclosure is further connected to the front brace structure at a bottom surface. 
     Example Embodiment 16 
     The snowmobile of one of example embodiments 14 or 15, wherein a steering mount is connected to the front portion of the battery enclosure for connection to a steering column, the steering mount transferring loads from the steering column into the body of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 17 
     The snowmobile of any one of example embodiments 14 to 16, further comprising a seat connected to the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure, wherein loads from the seat are received by and transferred into the body of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 18 
     The snowmobile of any one of example embodiments 14 to 17, wherein the front portion of the battery enclosure defines a first height and the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure defines a second height, the first height being greater than the second height. 
     Example Embodiment 19 
     The snowmobile of any one of example embodiments 14 to 18, wherein the front portion of the battery enclosure defines a first width and the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure defines a second width, the first width being greater than the second width. 
     Example Embodiment 20 
     The snowmobile of any one of example embodiments 14 to 19, wherein the front suspension system comprises at least one coil over spring and damper assembly. 
     Example Embodiment 21 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 20, wherein the at least one coil over spring and damper assembly is connected between a pair of skis and the front brace structure. 
     Example Embodiment 22 
     The snowmobile of any one of example embodiments 14 to 21, wherein the battery enclosure comprises a carbon fiber composite material. 
     Example Embodiment 23 
     The snowmobile of any one of example embodiments 14 to 21, wherein the battery enclosure comprises an injection molded glass fiber reinforced plastic material. 
     Example embodiment 24. The snowmobile of any one of example embodiments 14 to 23, wherein the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure is connected to the rear tunnel of the chassis via two or more right side blocks and two or more left side blocks. 
     Example Embodiment 25 
     The snowmobile of any one of example embodiments 14 to 24, wherein the battery enclosure has a stiffness that is within a range that is equal to or greater than 10 gigapascal (Gpa) and equal to or less than 70 Gpa. 
     Example Embodiment 26 
     The snowmobile of any one of example embodiments 14 to 25, wherein the battery enclosure comprises a cover and a floor. 
     Example Embodiment 27 
     The snowmobile of any one of example embodiments 14 to 26, further comprising an electric motor, wherein the battery enclosure houses at least two electric battery modules for supplying electricity to the electric motor. 
     Example Embodiment 28 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 27, wherein the at least two electric battery modules comprise one or more pouch battery cells. 
     Example Embodiment 29 
     A battery enclosure for an electric snowmobile, the battery enclosure comprising: a tunnel portion adapted for connection to a rear tunnel of a snowmobile chassis; a front portion adapted for connection to a front brace structure of the snowmobile chassis, wherein the battery enclosure is configured to receive loads from a front suspension system of the snowmobile through the front brace structure and transfers the loads from the front suspension system to at least one of the rear tunnel and a center of mass of the electric vehicle through a body of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 30 
     The battery enclosure of example embodiment 29, configured for connection to a steering column via a steering mount for receiving loads from the steering column into the body of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 31 
     The battery enclosure of example embodiment 29, configured for connection to a seat of the electric vehicle for receiving loads from the seat into the body of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 32 
     The battery enclosure of any one of example embodiments 29 to 31, wherein the front portion of the battery enclosure defines a first height and the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure defines a second height, the first height being greater than the second height. 
     Example Embodiment 33 
     The battery enclosure of any one of example embodiments 29 to 32, wherein the front portion of the battery enclosure defines a first width and the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure defines a second width, the first width being greater than the second width. 
     Example Embodiment 34 
     The battery enclosure of any one of example embodiments 29 to 33, wherein the battery enclosure comprises a carbon fiber composite material. 
     Example Embodiment 35 
     The battery enclosure of any one of example embodiments 29 to 34, wherein the battery enclosure comprises an injection molded glass fiber reinforced plastic material. 
     Example Embodiment 36 
     The battery enclosure of any one of example embodiments 29 to 35, wherein the battery enclosure has a stiffness that is within a range that is equal to or greater than 10 gigapascal (Gpa) and equal to or less than 70 Gpa. 
     Example Embodiment 37 
     The battery enclosure of any one of example embodiments 29 to 36, wherein the battery enclosure comprises a cover and a floor. 
     Example Embodiment 38 
     A straddle-seat electric vehicle, comprising; a chassis including a suspension system; and a battery pack configured as a structural element that receives loads from the suspension system. 
     Example Embodiment 39 
     The straddle-seat electric vehicle of example embodiment 38, the battery pack comprising a battery enclosure coupled to the suspension system for transferring, at least partially, loads from the suspension system through a body of the battery enclosure to the chassis. 
     Example Embodiment 40 
     The straddle-seat electric vehicle of example embodiment 38, comprising a brace structure that transfers loads between the suspension system and the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 41 
     The straddle-seat electric vehicle of example embodiment 38, further comprising a straddle seat, the straddle seat being mounted directly to the battery pack. 
     Example Embodiment 42 
     The straddle-seat electric vehicle of example embodiment 39, wherein the straddle-seat vehicle is a snowmobile. 
     Example Embodiment 43 
     An electric vehicle, comprising: a battery pack having a battery enclosure, the battery enclosure defines a slot that extends downwards from a top surface of the battery enclosure for receiving a steering column of the electric vehicle. 
     Example Embodiment 44 
     The electric vehicle of example embodiment 43, wherein the slot extends downwards from the top surface of the battery enclosure to a front side surface of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 45 
     The electric vehicle of example embodiment 43, wherein the slot extends downwards from the top surface of the battery enclosure to a bottom surface of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 46 
     The electric vehicle of example embodiment 43, wherein the width of the slot varies along a length, a top end of the slot being wider than a bottom end of the slot. 
     Example Embodiment 47 
     The electric vehicle of example embodiment 43, wherein the slot divides the front portion of the battery enclosure into a first side and a second side, wherein each of the first side and second side is suitable for housing one or more electric battery modules. 
     Example Embodiment 48 
     The electric vehicle of example embodiment 43, wherein the slot is positioned substantially centrally with respect to a first side wall and a second side wall of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 49 
     The electric vehicle of example embodiment 43, wherein the battery enclosure is a structural component suitable for receiving loads from the steering column and transferring the loads to a chassis. 
     Example Embodiment 50 
     The electric vehicle of example embodiment 43, wherein a straight steering column passes through the slot. 
     Example Embodiment 51 
     A snowmobile, comprising: a chassis that comprises: a rear tunnel; and a front brace structure; a battery enclosure defining a tunnel portion and a front portion, the tunnel portion being connected to the rear tunnel of the chassis and the front portion being connected to the front brace structure, wherein the front portion of the battery enclosure defines a slot that extends downwards from a top surface of the battery enclosure for receiving a steering column of the snowmobile. 
     Example Embodiment 52 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 51, wherein the slot extends downwards from the top surface of the battery enclosure to a front side surface of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 53 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 51, wherein the slot extends downwards from the top surface of the battery enclosure to a bottom surface of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 54 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 51, wherein the slot defines a first side wall, a second side wall and a bottom surface, wherein the bottom surface of the slot extends at an angle of between 30-60 degrees with respect to a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile. 
     Example Embodiment 55 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 51, wherein a width of the slot is between 30 millimeters (mm) and 60 mm. 
     Example Embodiment 56 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 55, wherein the width of the slot varies along a length, a top end of the slot being wider than a bottom end of the slot. 
     Example Embodiment 57 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 51, wherein the slot divides the front portion of the battery enclosure into a first side and a second side, wherein each of the first side and second side is suitable for housing one or more electric battery modules. 
     Example Embodiment 58 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 51, wherein the slot is positioned substantially centrally with respect to a first side wall and a second side wall of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 59 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 51, wherein the battery enclosure is a structural component suitable for receiving loads from the steering column and transferring the loads to the chassis. 
     Example Embodiment 60 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 51, wherein a straight steering column passes through the slot. 
     Example Embodiment 61 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 51, wherein a top of the steering column is above the top surface of the battery enclosure and a bottom of the steering column is below a bottom surface of the battery enclosure and is attached to a steering mechanism that controls a direction of a right front ski and a left front ski for the snowmobile. 
     Example Embodiment 62 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 51, wherein an upper steering mount is attached to the top surface of the battery enclosure and is configured to support an upper portion of the steering column and provide a stiffness to the upper portion of the steering column. 
     Example Embodiment 63 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 62, wherein the battery enclosure has a stiffness that is within a range that is equal to or greater than 10 gigapascal (Gpa) and equal to or less than 70 Gpa, and wherein the stiffness of the battery enclosure corresponds with the stiffness that the upper steering mount provides to the upper portion of the steering column. 
     Example Embodiment 64 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 62, wherein the upper steering mount comprises a right upper steering mount and a left upper steering mount attached to a pipe having an axis aligned with an axis of the steering column, and wherein the steering column passes through the pipe and is supported by the pipe. 
     Example Embodiment 65 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 51, wherein the steering column passes through the slot at an angle with respect to an axis of the steering column and a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile that is equal to or greater than 30 degrees and equal to or less than 60 degrees. 
     Example Embodiment 66 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 51, wherein the slot is centered between a right side wall and a left side wall of the front portion of the battery enclosure, and wherein a right side stack of one or more batteries are between a first side wall of the slot and a first side wall of the front portion of the battery enclosure, and wherein a left side stack of one or more batteries are between a second side wall of the slot and a second side wall of the front portion of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 67 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 51, wherein the front portion of the battery enclosure has a width in a direction transverse to a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile in a direction between the front end and the back end of the snowmobile that is greater than a width of the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure, and wherein the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure includes a row of one or more batteries aligned along the substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile between the front end and the rear end of the snowmobile. 
     Example Embodiment 68 
     A battery enclosure for an electric vehicle, comprising: a rear portion; and a front portion, the front portion of the battery enclosure defining a slot that extends downwards from a top surface of the battery enclosure for receiving a steering column of the electric vehicle. 
     Example Embodiment 69 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 68, wherein the slot extends downwards from the top surface of the battery enclosure to a front side surface of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 70 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 68, wherein the slot extends downwards from the top surface of the battery enclosure to a bottom surface of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 71 
     The battery enclosure of example embodiment 68, wherein the slot defines a first side wall, a second side wall and a bottom surface, wherein the bottom surface of the slot extends at an angle of between 30-60 degrees with respect to a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the electric vehicle. 
     Example Embodiment 72 
     The battery enclosure of example embodiment 68, wherein a width of the slot is between 30 millimeters (mm) and 60 mm. 
     Example Embodiment 73 
     The battery enclosure of example embodiment 68, wherein the slot divides the front portion of the battery enclosure into a first side and a second side, wherein each of the first side and second side is suitable for housing electric battery modules. 
     Example Embodiment 74 
     The battery enclosure of example embodiment 68, wherein the slot is positioned substantially centrally with respect to a first side wall and a second side wall of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 75 
     The battery enclosure of example embodiment 68, wherein the battery enclosure has a stiffness that is within a range that is equal to or greater than 10 gigapascal (Gpa) and equal to or less than 70 Gpa. 
     Example Embodiment 76 
     The battery enclosure of example embodiment 68, wherein the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure includes a row of one or more batteries in a direction between the front portion of the battery enclosure and the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure. 
     Example Embodiment 77 
     The battery enclosure of example embodiment 68, wherein the battery enclosure comprises a carbon fiber composite material. 
     Example Embodiment 78 
     The battery enclosure of example embodiment 68, wherein the battery enclosure comprises an injection molded glass fiber reinforced plastic material. 
     Example Embodiment 79 
     The battery enclosure of example embodiment 68, wherein the electric vehicle is a snowmobile. 
     Example Embodiment 81 
     An electric vehicle, comprising: a chassis defining a rear portion and a front portion; a transmission mounted to a rear portion of the chassis; a battery enclosure mounted on top of the rear portion of the chassis; and an electric motor mounted below the battery enclosure and between a front side of the rear chassis and a front end of the electric vehicle. 
     Example Embodiment 82 
     The electric vehicle of example embodiment 81, wherein the electric motor is positioned generally horizontally relative to the transmission. 
     Example Embodiment 83 
     The electric vehicle of example embodiment 81, wherein a transmission drive shaft and a motor drive shaft are spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the electric vehicle. 
     Example Embodiment 84 
     The electric vehicle of example embodiment 81, wherein the rear portion of the chassis is a rear tunnel and the front portion of the chassis is a front brace structure, wherein a transmission plate attached to the electric motor is connected at a first end to the rear tunnel and at a second end to the front brace structure. 
     Example Embodiment 85 
     The electric vehicle of example embodiment 81, wherein the electric vehicle is a snowmobile. 
     Example Embodiment 86 
     A snowmobile, comprising: a chassis that comprises a rear tunnel; a battery enclosure mounted to the rear tunnel; and an electric motor mounted below the battery enclosure and adjacent to a front side of the rear tunnel. 
     Example Embodiment 87 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 86, wherein the chassis further defines a mid-bay and a front brace structure, the mid-bay being located between the rear tunnel and the front brace structure, wherein the electric motor is positioned within the mid-bay. 
     Example Embodiment 88 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 87, wherein the mid-bay comprises a transmission plate positioned substantially parallel to a first side edge of the rear tunnel. 
     Example Embodiment 89 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 88, wherein the transmission plate is attached at a first end to the first side edge of the rear tunnel and at a second end to a component of the front brace structure. 
     Example Embodiment 90 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 89, wherein the transmission plate is further attached to a front plate of the electric motor. 
     Example Embodiment 91 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 90, further comprising a transmission, wherein the electric motor is mounted proximate to the transmission by the transmission plate. 
     Example Embodiment 92 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 91, wherein the transmission plate includes a U-shaped opening that extends downwards from a top side of the transmission plate, and wherein the electric motor is attached to both sides of the U-shaped opening such that a drive shaft of the electric motor extends through the U-shaped opening. 
     Example Embodiment 93 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 89, wherein the component of the front brace structure is mounted to an underside of the battery enclosure and to the transmission plate. 
     Example Embodiment 94 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 91, wherein the electric motor includes an electric motor drive gear and the transmission includes a transmission gear, and wherein a drive belt is connected between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear such that an angle of a top portion of the drive belt between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear with respect to a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile is equal to or less than 20% and equal to or greater than −20%. 
     Example Embodiment 95 
     The snowmobile of example embodiment 89, further comprising a drive belt idler pulley that contacts a bottom surface of the bottom portion of the drive belt, and wherein the top portion of the drive belt is connected directly between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear. 
     Example Embodiment 96 
     An electric snowmobile, comprising: a transmission mounted within an interior of a rear tunnel of the snowmobile and proximate to a rear suspension of a track of the snowmobile; a battery enclosure mounted to the rear tunnel; and an electric motor mounted below the battery enclosure and between a front side of the rear tunnel and a front end of the snowmobile. 
     Example Embodiment 97 
     The electric snowmobile of example embodiment 96, further comprising a transmission, wherein the electric motor is mounted directly to the transmission by a transmission plate, and wherein the transmission plate is mounted to the rear tunnel of the snowmobile. 
     Example Embodiment 98 
     The electric snowmobile of example embodiment 97, wherein the transmission plate includes a U-shaped opening that extends downwards from a top side of the transmission plate, and wherein the electric motor is attached to the transmission plate at an interior of the transmission plate such that a drive shaft of the electric motor extends through from the interior to an exterior of the U-shaped opening of the transmission plate. 
     Example Embodiment 99 
     The electric snowmobile of example embodiment 97, wherein the electric motor includes an electric motor drive gear and the transmission includes a transmission gear, and wherein a drive belt is connected between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear such that an angle of a top portion of the drive belt between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear with respect to a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the snowmobile is equal to or less that 20% and equal to or greater than −20%.