Introduction

1.1.2 Modern car

Paradoxically, but true: a modern car is as complex as it is simple. This is so due to the fact that the basic elements that make a car, remain, in fact, unchanged for almost hundred years. Only some elements become more complex, some new auxiliary systems are added. These systems that develop constantly expand their functionality (this, for example, happened with the anti-lock braking system - with the addition of certain software, a system of exchange rate stability, which uses all the elements of ABS, appeared). Everything is done for improving safety and comfort while driving. But, when returning to the issue of knowledge, even basic, we can make the conclusion that it can be useful while buying a new (or old, but regular) car. The “sweet words” of sales managers in a car dealership about the urgent need for a particular system in a car can confuse anyone, but not a person who clearly knows what these systems are used for. And the story about the 6 liters’ fuel consumption of a two-liter gasoline engine (if it is not a hybrid power unit) can be decisive while choosing a car. However, a knowledge-sophisticated driver will immediately ask again which consumption cycle - urban, suburban or mixed - is indicated. You can be pretty sure that this question will at least discourage the seller.

All of the aforementioned issues and peculiarities are described in this textbook. Having studied it, it will be possible to understand what makes the car move, what elements it consists of and why they are needed. What systems are used in modern vehicles. According to what parameters and how are cars classified When starting the work on this edition, the author set himself the goal to explain a sufficiently difficult theoretical model of car arrangement in the most accessible form.