The method employs a pole-switched three-phase induction motor (1) with two selectively energised stator windings and a controller (3) for automatic setting of a predetermined speed for each winding with the aid of a displacement measurement system (4) linked to a position encoder (5). The drive is switched from the higher to the lower speed at a predetermined point ahead of a preset destination, and is braked until the lower speed is attained. The switching points are determined automatically in accordance with measured decelerations.
