Definition of Automobile and its Classifications?

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Automobile:

An automobile is a self-propelled vehicle that is a vehicle producing power within itself for its propulsion. A self-propelled vehicle considered to carry passengers or goods and run on the road surface is called an automobile. All vehicles are not automobiles like ship, aeroplanes and rocket etc. because automobiles almost run on the road surface. A train runs upon the railway track and not on the road. A ship sails in the sea. An aeroplane and rocket fly in the air. Therefore, except these, rest all are automobiles.

Key components of an automobile include:

  1. Chassis: The frame or structure that supports the vehicle’s mechanical components, including the engine, suspension system, steering mechanism, and brakes.
  2. Powertrain: The system that generates and transmits power to the wheels, which includes the engine (combustion or electric), transmission, driveshaft, differential, and axles.
  3. Body: The outer shell or structure of the vehicle, which provides protection to occupants and houses the interior components such as seats, dashboard, controls, and safety features.
  4. Wheels and Tires: The circular components that allow the vehicle to move, with tires providing traction and cushioning while absorbing shocks from the road surface.
  5. Fuel or Energy Source: Depending on the type of vehicle, this can include gasoline, diesel, electricity, or alternative fuels such as hydrogen or compressed natural gas.
  6. Electronics and Control Systems: Modern automobiles are equipped with various electronic systems for engine management, safety features (like airbags and antilock braking systems), entertainment (such as audio systems and navigation), and connectivity (like Bluetooth and internet access).

Classification of automobiles:


Automobiles can be classified based on various criteria, including their size, purpose, fuel type, and design. Here are some common classifications of automobiles:

  1. Size Classification:
    • Compact Cars: Small-sized cars designed for city driving and fuel efficiency.
    • Mid-Size Cars: Intermediate-sized cars offering a balance of space, comfort, and fuel economy.
    • Full-Size Cars: Larger cars with more interior space and often more powerful engines.
  2. Purpose Classification:
    • Sedans: Four-door passenger cars with separate compartments for the engine, passengers, and cargo.
    • SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles): Vehicles with a higher ground clearance and often equipped with all-wheel drive, suitable for off-road driving and carrying passengers and cargo.
    • Pickup Trucks: Vehicles with an open cargo area at the rear, designed for carrying goods and towing trailers.
    • Vans and Minivans: Vehicles designed primarily for transporting passengers or cargo, with a boxy shape and sliding doors.
  3. Fuel Type Classification:
    • Gasoline Cars: Cars powered by internal combustion engines that run on gasoline.
    • Diesel Cars: Cars powered by internal combustion engines that run on diesel fuel.
    • Electric Cars: Cars powered by electric motors and batteries, with zero tailpipe emissions.
    • Hybrid Cars: Cars that combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor and battery, offering improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
  4. Drive Layout Classification:
  • Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Cars: Cars where the power from the engine is transmitted to the front wheels, providing traction and stability.
  • Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Cars: Cars where the power is transmitted to the rear wheels, offering improved handling and performance characteristics.
  • All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Cars: Cars that can send power to all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.
  • Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) Cars: Similar to AWD but often designed for off-road use, with selectable modes for different terrain.

5. Steering and Suspension Classification:

    • Conventional Suspension Cars: Cars with traditional suspension systems, including independent or dependent setups with coil springs, leaf springs, or air suspension.
    • Adaptive Suspension Cars: Cars equipped with adaptive or adjustable suspension systems that can vary damping rates and ride height based on driving conditions and driver preferences.
    • Steering Types: Cars classified based on steering systems such as rack-and-pinion steering, electric power steering (EPS), hydraulic power steering (HPS), and variable-ratio steering.

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