This paper deals with design and analysis of surface-mounted PM (SPM) motor for compressor of air-conditioning system for electric vehicle applications according to slot/pole combination. First, required torque-speed curve characteristics are determined from operating conditions of the compressor. Restricted conditions such as motor size limit and current density are also determined. And then, under same rated and restricted conditions, twelve models which have different slot/pole combinations each other are designed for various pole arc/pitch ratio using simple equations and 2-d finite element (FE) analyses. Designed models are analyzed and compared in terms of back-emf THD, cogging torque, torque ripple, power losses, efficiency, etc. On the basis of analysis results, it is found that the motor with a 6-pole PM rotor and a 27-slot stator has most outstanding performances in electromagnetic aspects. Finally, through the mechanical modal analysis and demagnetization analysis, it is concluded that the determined motor is most suitable for the compressor of air-conditioning system for electric vehicles.