The paper presents the algorithm and procedure for optimization of the switched reluctance motor. The switched reluctance motor (SRM) with an 8/6 structure is optimized. Two design variables are taken into account in the optimization process. Such types of SRM are commonly used in hybrid electric vehicles and aerospace applications. The main aim of our work is to increase the performance parameters of electric vehicles and to make them more optimized for low cost by using suitable dimensions of motor and different kind of design materials. In the objective functions the electromagnetic torque, the torque ripple, and the mass of the core are taken into consideration. The optimization calculation is executed in the 2D finite element method. The performance characteristics are determined for both optimal structures. Selected results of the calculation are presented and discussed.