Modern automobiles are powered by a water-cooled, piston-type internal-combustion engine
An internal combustion engine (ICE) is an internal combustion device that burns fuel, usually gasoline, with air. The combustion process results in energy that is transferred to the wheels. The combustion process starts with a spark plug that ignites the fuel/oxidizer mixture. The energy from the gas then moves the pistons up and down on cylinders, which then rotates the crankshaft. A typical automobile engine has four to six cylinders. The turning movement of the engine is then passed to the wheels via a drivetrain.
Modern automobiles use four-stroke internal combustion engines. This engine type has evolved since the invention of the first practical four-stroke engine in the late 1870s. Each stroke is referred to as a power stroke, and each piston stroke provides torque needed to move the vehicle. In some modern automobiles, the engine is built with two power strokes instead of four. These engines are more efficient and less polluting than two-stroke engines.
They have four or five seats
Automobiles with four or five seats are available for a wide variety of purposes. For example, a family of four may need a vehicle with four front seats, but one of the more popular types is a hatchback. This type of vehicle is great for city driving and can fit into a small parking spot.
Sedans have four doors and a traditional trunk, and can come in a variety of sizes, ranging from subcompact cars, such as the Nissan Versa, to midsize sedans, such as the Nissan Altima. Depending on their features and size, some sedans even have a full-sized trunk. Some cars have a luxurious interior, such as a Mercedes-Benz or a Cadillac Escalade.
They have safety features
Automobiles have a wide variety of safety features that help prevent accidents. One example is the seatbelt reminder, which lights up and emits an audible tone to remind passengers to buckle up. Another common safety feature is head protection, which uses soft material on the side pillars and headrest to absorb the impact on a driver’s head in the event of an accident. In addition, adjustable mirrors help drivers monitor the road better, and they can also reduce the risk of a crash.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been involved with improving vehicle safety for decades. The agency is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2020 and continues to work on innovative solutions to make automobiles safer. In 1993, NHTSA expanded its program to include a five-star safety rating system. This rating system is still in use today and has helped increase vehicle safety for consumers.