Car Design Chapter 2

Study Notes

Many people contribute to the creation of a new car, including design engineers, production engineers, and researchers.
Car manufacturers research the market to find out what drivers want before releasing a new model.
Designers use paper sketches, wireframe images, and full-size clay models to develop a car's design.
Industrial designers create detailed technical drawings using computer-aided design (CAD) programs.
CAD programs show the final shape of the car and allow manufacturers to make changes to the design easily.

Once the design is set, a manufacturer builds a prototype full-size model of the car.
The prototype is tested for safety, comfort, roadholding, engine response, and overall performance.
The prototype helps manufacturers see how all the different parts of the car fit together.

Modern car manufacturing is dominated by computer technology.
Computer-controlled engines monitor performance and keep the car working with maximum efficiency.
Sensors detect information such as fuel and air intake, engine temperature, and other data.
The onboard computer makes continual adjustments to the car's running based on this data.
The computer also controls features like airbags and anti-lock braking systems (ABS) to ensure safety.

By 2014, there were over one billion vehicles on the world's roads.
More than 50 million new cars are added to the roads every year.
The huge number of cars on the road contributes to air pollution and city center congestion.

Manufacturers are making cars with engines that create less pollution.
Computer controls help cut down exhaust emissions.
Smart sensors in the engine control unit monitor fuel consumption to ensure emissions are kept within an acceptable range.
Modern cars are built with streamlined, aerodynamic shapes to reduce drag and air resistance.
The shape of the car is tested in a wind tunnel to ensure minimum drag.
Smooth, long, low cars push through the air more easily, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.