The modern automobile was developed in the late 1800s. It is based on the internal combustion engine (ICE), which was invented by Dutch scientist Christiaan Huygens in the late 1600s. William D. Packard was one of the first automobile manufacturers. The company’s first car, a Model B, was seen in the late 1800s near Packard’s first plant.
Development of internal combustion engines
Internal combustion engines are the heart of almost all automobiles. They are the successors to the old-fashioned steam and external combustion engines, but are much more efficient. They also have the advantage of being lightweight and drivable.
Development of air-conditioning
In automobiles, the air-conditioning system is used to make the cabin temperature comfortable. The use of this system also promotes energy conservation, as it consumes less energy than other heating systems. This system is controlled by a CPU that calculates the heat load and air-conditioning capacity of a vehicle. The CPU also controls the speed of the fans, as well as the amount of refrigerant flow. The aim of the study is to develop a car with optimal in-car cooling capacity and minimal energy consumption.
Development of airbags
The development of airbags in automobiles began in the 1960s. The first designs were developed simultaneously in Germany and the United States, using a quick release burst of compressed air to help occupants survive crashes. However, this design was not reliable enough to protect drivers and passengers in serious accidents. In 1963, Yasuzaburou Kobori developed a much more reliable design. He received patents in 14 countries and further refined the technology.
Safety improvements in automobiles
Since the 1970s, the United States has experienced many safety improvements in automobiles, from air bags to seat belts. Other improvements include safer fuel tanks, Jaws of Life, and anti-driving while intoxicated campaigns.
Impact of automobiles on animals
There is a huge problem with automobiles and the impact on wildlife. Each year, automobile collisions kill an estimated one million animals in the U.S. Road mortality is also increasing. Researchers estimate that between 0.5 and 1.5 million deer are killed due to collisions. The study also found that the rate of car crashes is increasing in the U.S.
Impact of automobiles on society
Automobiles have a large and complex impact on society. They contribute to air pollution, climate change, and depletion of fossil fuels. Many of these negative impacts are most visible in large cities with huge driving populations. Automobile exhaust fumes cover cities in a thick layer of smog, and they also contain greenhouse gases, which allow more sunlight to enter Earth’s atmosphere and trap heat.