Automotive Technology
Automotive technology is an ever-changing discipline with a wide range of vehicles being developed every year. The automotive industry employs close to 25 million people worldwide, creating jobs in almost every country. Cars are one of the most important and most sold products in the world. Almost all cities in the world have some type of automobile park.
Automobiles are classified by manufacturers into four main categories: passenger automobiles, utility automobiles, sports and luxury automobiles, and custom automobiles. A passenger automobile is a wheeled passenger vehicle used for traveling. Most definitions of automobiles state that they are small in size and seat two to eight persons, have a gasoline engine, and primarily transport individuals rather than products. Passengers can choose from small, economy to luxury sedans, sport and luxury coupes, minivans, pickups, and SUVs. Utility automobiles are large trucks used for hauling materials or objects.
An automobile is a motorized machine that is designed, manufactured, and operated for the purpose of moving people or things from one location to another. Automobiles are most commonly used for commuting, though there are some bus types that are also used. In the United States, approximately 1.6 million automobiles are on the road today. The top manufacturing areas for passenger vehicles in the United States are Detroit, Michigan; Los Angeles, California; San Diego, California; and Toledo, Ohio. Automotive sales make up three percent of the U.S. economy.
Automobiles have undergone many changes over the years, especially in terms of design. The automotive industry continues to improve vehicles, engines, transmissions, body styles, and more. Today, consumers can purchase any type of vehicle they desire. Some popular styles include sport utility vehicles, coupes, minivans, sedans, and SUVs.
Automobiles can be powered by gasoline, alternative fuels, diesel, gasoline-electric hybrids, plug-in hybrids, biodiesel, biofuels, nuclear energy, compressed natural gas, fossil fuels, renewable energy, gasoline fleets, motorcycles, boats, scooters, and even golf carts. One of the most recent technological advances in vehicles is the use of electric motors combined with onboard computer systems to provide smoother driving experience. Most major auto manufacturers are researching new technologies that will enable them to provide consumers with ever better and more convenient experience. One of the future possibilities is a vehicle that can power itself using wind energy or solar energy.
Automobiles are a significant part of the American economy. The demand for new and used vehicles is expected to continue for at least another decade. To meet future demands, the automotive industry is investing heavily in research and development as well as new technologies to advance the quality, safety, efficiency, and reliability of their products. In addition to introducing new vehicles, the automotive industry is making advancements in the manufacturing process such as lightweight construction, greater collision resistance, environmental protection, increased passenger and crash protection, and more efficient engines and batteries. In addition to these technologies, the industry is focusing on increasing fuel economy, reducing emissions, reducing energy consumption, and making transportation more accessible.