With the advent of enhanced speed-torque characteristics, high efficiency, fault tolerant capability and high power handling capability with reduced ratings of semi-conductor devices the multi-phase induction machines are gaining more attention in high-power applications. This paper mainly aims the design of pole-phase modulated induction motor drives (PPMMIM), by considering the all-opposing forces acting the vehicle. With the help of vehicle dynamic equations, the required torque and power rating of the machine are calculated to attain the vehicle speed of 150 km/h. Optimal design considerations of the three-speed and five-speed PPMMIM's are presented to achieve this rated speed and toque requirements. Moreover, the extended speed-toque capability of the PPMMIM drive will helps to eliminate the gearbox in conventional IC engine based vehicles. The performance parameters of these 3-speed and 5-speed PPMMIM driven vehicles verified with the help of MATLAB simulation. A similar kind of simulation study carried out for IC engine based vehicles also to compare the performance characteristics of PPMMIM driven electric vehicle. © 2017 IEEE.