This paper presents a simulation model and a parameter identification scheme of an induction motor drive for electric vehicle. The induction motor in automotive applications should operate in very high efficiency and achieve the maximum-torque-per-ampere (MTPA) feature even with saturated magnetic flux under very high torque. The indirect vector control which is typically adopted in traction drive system requires precise information of motor parameters, particularly rotor time constants. This work models an induction motor considering magnetic saturation and proposes an empirical identification method using the current controller in the synchronous reference frame. The proposed method is applied to a 22kW-rated induction motor for electric vehicle.