The artificial bee colony algorithm is one of the latest stochastic methods based on swarm intelligence. The algorithm simulates the foraging behavior of honeybees. The structure of the algorithm is quite simple and its coding is very easy. This paper proposes a design optimization based on geometrical variables to obtain a highly efficient surface-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor with concentrated winding by use of the artificial bee colony algorithm. Input parameters for the algorithm are the geometrical variables of the motor. This approach is more advantageous than finite element analysis requiring a long period of time. Results of the artificial bee colony algorithm are compared with results of a genetic algorithm and checked with a commercial design program. The results emphasize the effectiveness of the algorithm on the design optimization of the permanent magnet synchronous motor.