Advances in Technology

Perhaps the thing that has brought about the greatest change in the automotive industry is the computer. Not only are engine support systems controlled by computers, nearly every other major system on a car has some sort of electronic control. Initially, electronic controls were added to help maintain low emissions levels from vehicles. As these controls became more sophisticated, they improved engine performance. Electronic controls have done so much for engine efficiency that some of early emission control system have been eliminated.

The use of electronics has and will continue to change the automobile, as will advances made in other technologies. New composite materials are being used for engine parts. Soon most of the engine may be made with plastic-based of ceramic materials. Steel body panels are being replaced with aluminum and plastic parts that are bonded to a frame with special adhesives. The remaining steel body parts are thin, high-strength steel. Steel, aluminum, and composites are being used to reduce vehicle weight. Reduced weight results in better performance and fuel economy, especially when the weight of moving engine parts is reduced. A loss of weight here reduces the frictional drag of the engine, resulting in great increases in power output.

Vehicles powered by electric motors have also been introduced by the manufacturers. Some use a battery as the power source for the motor. Others use a small automotive type engine to charge a battery and to act a supplemental power source the electric motor.

The way automobile of today and tomorrow look and run is being shaped by the constant influx of new technology.

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