An automobile is not a simple assembly of metal parts, but a sophisticated machine in which seven core systems work in precise coordination. From power output to safe braking, each system has a clear division of labor, jointly supporting th
An automobile is not a simple assembly of metal parts, but a sophisticated machine in which seven core systems work in precise coordination. From power output to safe braking, each system has a clear division of labor, jointly supporting the vehicle’s driving, handling and safety.
1. Power System: The "Heart" of an Automobile
Its core function is to convert energy into mechanical power. There are significant differences in the power sources between fuel-powered vehicles and new energy vehicles.
Fuel-powered vehicles are centered on piston internal combustion engines, generating power through the
four-stroke cycle (intake, compression, power, exhaust). Fuel mixes with air and is ignited in the cylinder (gasoline engines) or compressed to ignition (diesel engines), pushing the pistons to move. The crankshaft then converts the linear motion into rotational power. Auxiliary components include the fuel system (fuel supply and filtration), intake and exhaust system (air filtration and exhaust gas treatment), cooling system (preventing engine overheating) and lubrication system (engine oil reducing component wear).
New energy vehicles replace internal combustion engines with electric motors, powered by traction batteries. Based on the principle of electromagnetic induction, they directly convert electrical energy into mechanical energy, featuring a simpler structure, faster response and zero exhaust emissions.
2. Transmission System: The "Transmission Link" of Power
It is responsible for transmitting the torque and rotational speed output by the power system to the drive wheels at an appropriate ratio. Core components include:
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Clutch (for manual transmissions) or torque converter (for automatic transmissions), which smoothly connect or disconnect power;
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Transmission, which changes the gear ratio to reduce speed and increase torque or increase speed and reduce torque;
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Drive shafts/half shafts, which transmit power to the wheels;
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Differential, which allows the left and right wheels to rotate at different speeds during cornering, ensuring smooth turns.
Different types of transmissions (AT, CVT, DCT) adopt distinct transmission logic, which directly affects the driving experience and becomes a key factor for vehicle selection.
3. Running Gear System: The "Body and Limbs" of an Automobile
It bears the entire weight of the vehicle, cushions road shocks and ensures driving comfort. It mainly consists of:
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Frame/unibody, which serves as the installation base of the whole vehicle and bears loads;
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Axles and wheels, which directly contact the ground and transmit driving force;
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Suspension system, where springs cushion shocks and shock absorbers suppress vibrations, maintaining the wheels’ contact with the ground.
The tuning of the suspension directly determines the vehicle’s comfort and handling performance, and it is one of the core differences between family cars and sports cars.
4. Steering and Braking Systems: The "Control and Guarantee" of Safety
The steering system converts rotational motion into wheel deflection through components such as the steering wheel and steering gear. Modern vehicles are generally equipped with electric or hydraulic power steering, greatly reducing steering effort.
The braking system converts kinetic energy into thermal energy through friction to achieve deceleration or parking. Core components include the brake pedal, master brake cylinder, brake discs/drums and brake pads. It is paired with electronic systems such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) to enhance braking safety.
5. Body and Electrical Systems: The "Skin and Nervous System"
The body provides passenger space and protection. Made of high-strength materials and energy-absorbing structures, it is the core of passive safety.
The electrical system is like a neural network, covering the power supply (battery, alternator), starting system, ignition system (for gasoline engines), lighting, air conditioning and Electronic Control Unit (ECU). As the "brain", the ECU collects data through sensors and precisely controls systems such as the engine, transmission and brakes, which is the key to active safety and efficient operation.
The driving of an automobile is essentially the coordinated operation of the seven core systems: when the accelerator pedal is pressed, the ECU controls power output, the transmission system transmits torque, the running gear system stabilizes the vehicle body, and the steering and braking systems respond to control commands at any time, ultimately achieving safe and controllable movement.
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