An automobile refers to a non-track-carrying vehicle driven by power, equipped with four or more wheels, primarily used for transporting passengers and/or goods, towing, or specialized purposes.
Generally having four or more wheels and operating on land without relying on tracks or overhead lines, automobiles are commonly used for carrying passengers, cargo, or towing trailers.
Some are customized with specialized equipment for specific transportation or operational tasks, excluding machinery solely for agricultural use. Full trailers and semi-trailers lack self-propulsion; they are considered automobiles only when part of a vehicle train.
Components of an automobile:
1. The engine is the power unit of the vehicle. Its function is to generate power by burning fuel and then drive the wheels through the chassis's transmission system to make the vehicle move. There are mainly two types of engines: gasoline and diesel. Gasoline engines consist of a crankshaft connecting rod mechanism, a valve mechanism, a fuel supply system, a cooling system, a lubrication system, an ignition system, and a starting system. Diesel engines use compression ignition, thus they lack an ignition system.
2. The chassis supports and installs the vehicle's engine and its components and assemblies, creating the overall structure of the automobile. It accepts the engine's power, enabling the vehicle to move and ensuring proper operation. The chassis consists of four parts: the transmission system, driving system, steering system, and braking system.
3. The body is mounted on the chassis frame and is used for accommodating the driver, passengers, or cargo. Car bodies like sedans and passenger vehicles are generally a single structure, while truck bodies usually comprise a driver's cab and cargo box.
4. Electrical equipment comprises two major parts: the power source and electrical devices. The power source includes a battery and a generator. Electrical devices consist of the engine's starting system, gasoline engine's ignition system, and other electrical appliances.
With the development of automobiles in recent years, the progress of new energy vehicles and intelligent driving technologies has been visibly remarkable.
New energy vehicles refer to automobiles that utilize unconventional vehicle fuels as power sources (or use conventional vehicle fuels with new vehicle-mounted power systems). They incorporate advanced technology in vehicle power control and propulsion, resulting in vehicles with advanced technical principles, new technology, and new structures.
New energy vehicles encompass pure electric cars, extended-range electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, fuel cell electric vehicles, hydrogen-powered vehicles, etc.
The evolution of automobiles into new energy vehicles and the advancement of intelligent driving reflect the ever-changing landscape of the automotive industry. The shift toward innovative technologies like electric vehicles, hybrids, and fuel cell-powered cars marks a significant stride toward a sustainable and efficient future in transportation.
This continuous progression highlights the industry's commitment to environmentally friendly solutions and the ongoing quest for safer, smarter, and more eco-conscious driving experiences.
