In this study, a brain emotional learning-based intelligent controller (BELBIC) is developed for the speed control of an interior permanent magnet synchronous motor (IPMSM). A novel and simple model of the IPMSM drive structure is established with the intelligent control system, which controls motor speed accurately without the use of any conventional PI controllers and is independent of motor parameters. This study is conducted in both real time and simulation with a new control plant for a laboratory 3 ph, 3.8 Nm IPMSM digital signal processor (DSP)-based drive system. This DSP-based drive system is then compared with conventional BELBIC and an optimized conventional PI controller. Results show that the proposed method performs better than the other controllers and exhibits excellent control characteristics, such as fast response, simple implementation, and robustness with respect to disturbances and manufacturing imperfections.