Podcast
Questions and Answers
What activities are NOT part of the engineering phase in the development process of a car?
What activities are NOT part of the engineering phase in the development process of a car?
Which of the following is a key focus area during the manufacturing phase of car development?
Which of the following is a key focus area during the manufacturing phase of car development?
What is one of the primary reasons for the transition from fossil fuel-powered cars to electric cars?
What is one of the primary reasons for the transition from fossil fuel-powered cars to electric cars?
During the launch phase of car development, what is one of the key activities related to marketing?
During the launch phase of car development, what is one of the key activities related to marketing?
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Which activity would typically NOT be part of the engineering reviews in the car development process?
Which activity would typically NOT be part of the engineering reviews in the car development process?
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What role do customer clinics play in the engineering phase of car development?
What role do customer clinics play in the engineering phase of car development?
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What is the primary source of power for a car?
What is the primary source of power for a car?
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Who is credited with inventing the modern car in 1886?
Who is credited with inventing the modern car in 1886?
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Which vehicle is considered one of the first cars affordable by the masses?
Which vehicle is considered one of the first cars affordable by the masses?
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What is one key phase in the invention process of a car?
What is one key phase in the invention process of a car?
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What are some aspects considered during the design process of a car?
What are some aspects considered during the design process of a car?
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Which component is crucial in defining the goals during the invention phase of a car?
Which component is crucial in defining the goals during the invention phase of a car?
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Study Notes
The Evolution and Creation of Cars: From Invention to Manufacturing
A car, or an automobile, is a motor vehicle with wheels that runs primarily on roads, seats one to eight people, and is powered by an engine or a motor. The modern car was invented in 1886 by German inventor Carl Benz, who patented the Benz Patent-Motorwagen, a three-wheeled vehicle that laid the foundation for the automobile industry. Commercial cars became widely available during the 20th century, with the Ford Model T being one of the first cars affordable by the masses.
Invention
The invention process of a car begins with market research to identify the role of the product and its components in the global portfolio. This involves defining special features, advantages, and potential world, U.S., or segment firsts. The competitive set is identified, target customers are set, and curb-weight, fuel-economy, and performance goals are defined. Powertrain selection, budget, funding, pricing, investment considerations, and computer-aided-engineering (CAE) analysis are also part of the invention phase.
Design
Following market research, the design process begins. Interior and exterior themes are selected, and continuous reviews are conducted. Exterior colors and interior-trim materials are chosen, and wind-tunnel assessments are conducted to evaluate themes. Concepts are created for management presentations and potential auto-show use. Additional CAE analysis is done, and management and engineering reviews are held.
Engineering
The engineering phase concurrently follows design, focusing on additional CAE analysis, customer clinics aimed at gathering feedback and suggestions for improvements, and research into advanced technologies such as engines, transmissions, electric controls, and manufacturing techniques. Package and layout studies are conducted, and body design and development for crashworthiness, weight, and durability are done in conjunction with CAE efforts. Aerodynamic development and design, development, tuning, and validation of powertrain, chassis, HVAC, infotainment, seats, lighting systems, hot- and cold-weather tests, crash tests, fuel-economy evaluations, design for manufacturing and assembly studies, component and manufacturing cost analysis, and collaboration with suppliers are all part of the engineering process.
Manufacturing
The manufacturing phase begins at month 36 and lasts for 36 months. It includes design for manufacturing and assembly, construction or modification of production facilities, tooling design, construction, and validation, pilot builds to validate process and parts, on-line preproduction builds, quality improvements, and confirmation that the production vehicle meets performance targets. Workforce training and collaboration with suppliers are also part of the manufacturing process.
Launch
The launch phase occurs in the final months before the car reaches showrooms. Market research, naming research (if needed), and pricing are defined. A marketing theme is developed, and the product is introduced to the dealer body. Logistics for the flow of vehicles to dealers are planned, and promotional materials are created. Presentations for management, auto shows, press, social media, dealers, and analysts are crafted.
The car industry has grown significantly since the invention of the first automobile, with various innovations and advancements in technology, fuel sources, and vehicle design. The transition from fossil fuel-powered cars to electric cars is a significant development in the industry, driven by concerns over climate change and the need for sustainable transportation options.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the evolution of cars from the invention stage to the manufacturing phase, exploring key aspects such as design, engineering, and launch processes. Learn about the history, innovations, and advancements that have shaped the car industry over the years.
