Automobiles are self-propelled vehicles for passenger transportation on land, usually equipped with four wheels and an internal combustion engine fueled most often by gasoline. They are one of the most universal and popular modern technologies, and the automobile industry is one of the largest industrial industries in the world.
Designing a Car
A vehicle’s design involves choosing an arrangement of components and choosing the correct mix of systems to meet its function, requirements, and characteristics. The arrangement of the engines, suspensions, brakes and other parts may be changed to improve fuel economy, handling, safety or comfort. It may also be necessary to change the way systems work, for example, by adding new types of electrical technology or improving the braking system.
Various factors influence the choice and arrangement of these components, such as the type of use of the vehicle. For example, an automobile designed for off-road use will have a more durable and simple system with increased resistance to severe overloads and extremes of operating conditions.
Another factor is the cost of producing the automobile, which must be reasonable for most people. A car that is intended for speed may require more powerful engine and more sophisticated handling, suspension and braking systems.
A car’s body may be made from a variety of materials, including aluminum, steel and fiberglass. It carries the passenger compartment, provides storage space and houses the automobile’s systems. It also helps protect the passengers from the elements and prevents damage in a crash.