The aim of this research was to investigate the torque performance of the motor in an electric vehicle depending on the rotor shape and air gap. The research focused on numerical comparison of torque performance of new rotors based on the average torque and torque ripple rate, which appeared according to the number and placement of permanent magnets. This research was numerically analyzed by MAXWELL V21.1. Average torque values in cases 1, 2, and 3 were increased, but vibration and noise in cases 1 and 3 were increased as the torque ripple rate increased. Considering the average torque and torque ripple rate, the torque performance of case 2 was the most optimal. Compared with Model N, the average torque of case 2 was increased by 9.1% and the torque ripple rate was reduced by 1.5%. The torque performance according to the size of air gap was compared with the basic model of case 2, which showed the best performance. An air gap of 0.7 mm applied to Model N showed the best torque performance. An additional magnet on case 2 and air gap of 0.7 mm provided the best torque performance and improved the driving motor performance for motor durability.