CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION OF AUTOMOBILE

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AUTOMOBILE: An automobile is a self-propelled vehicle designed for the

transportation of people or goods, typically with four wheels and powered by an
internal combustion engine or electric motor.

CLASSIFICATION OF AUTOMOBILE :- There are a number of ways to

classify the automobile. A few of them are as under listed :-

1. According to use :

1) Public Carrier. 2) Transport Carrier. 3) Agricultural Equipments.

4) Construction Equipments. 5) Heavy Earth Moving Equipments.

2. According to fuel consumed :

1) Petrol vehicle. 2) Diesel vehicle.

3) CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) vehicle. 4) LPG (Liquefied Petroleum
Gas) vehicle.
5) Electricity vehicle. 6) Hybrid vehicle.

3. According to type :

1) Two wheeler. 2) Three wheeler. 3) Four wheeler.

4) Car/Jeep. 5) Bus/Truck.

4. According to capacity :

1) Light commercial vehicle. 3) Intermediate commercial vehicle.

2) Heavy commercial vehicle.

5. According to type of drive :

1) Left hand driver. 2) Right hand drive.

6. According to positioning of engine :

1) Rear engine. 2) Front engine. 3) Centre engine.

7. According to type of engine :

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 1) Two stroke engine. 2) Four stroke engine. 3) Inline stroke engine.

3) V engine. 5) Turbocharged engine.

8. According to type of transmission :

1) Manual transmission. 2) Automatic transmission. 3) Semi Automatic

transmission.

9. According to type of suspension :

1) Rigid axle suspension.

2) Four wheel Independent suspension.

3) Two wheel suspension.

10. According to type of driving axle :

1) Front axle drive.

2) Rear axle drive.

3) Front and rear axle drive.

11. According to type of Steering :

1) Manual steering. 2) Power steering.

12. According to type of number of axles and wheels :

1) Two wheeler. 2) Three wheeler.

3) Four wheeler. 4) Multiple axle and multiple wheels.

13. According to type of Chassis :

1) Pressed steel frame construction.

2) Frameless (Integral) construction.

14. According to make and manufacture :

1) Honda.

2) Mahindra and Mahindra.

3) Tata motors.
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 4) Hyundai.

5) Bajaj.

6) Ford.

GENERAL VEHICLE LAYOUT :- The vehicle layout shows main parts of the
vehicle. The layouts of different types of vehicle are different. It consists of the
vehicle frame on which different components of a vehicle are mounted either
directly or indirectly :-

1.Engine :- It is source of power ,which drives the vehicle.

2. Clutch:- Main function of clutch is to disconnect the drive from the

engine to driving wheels while changing gear and to engage the drive from
engine to the driving wheels gradually while vehicle is moving from rest.

3. Gear Box:- The main function of gear box is to provide the necessary
variation to driving torque according to operating conditions.

4.Propeller Shaft:- Its function is to transmit the power from gear box to the
differential.

5) Differential:-While running straight both wheels have to run with equal

speed,but while taking turn inner wheel covers less distance with respect to
outer wheel ,therefore wheel must run with different speed ,this is done by
differential.
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 6) Rear axle and Front axle:-Weight of vehicle and chassis is bared by axle
on which wheels are mounted is known as rear and front axle .

7) Chassis:- A framed structure on which vehicle accessories are mounted.

8) Acessories and systems:- i.e. Cooling system,lub. System,Braking

system, Suspention system.etc
TYPES OF VEHICLE LAYOUT :- Based on the location of engine and the
drives provided to the wheels various types of layout includes the under listed :-

1. Front engine rear wheel drive

2. Front engine rear wheel drive with independent suspension

3. Front engine front wheel

4 . Front engine all wheel drive

5. Rear engine rear wheel drive

6. Center engine rear wheel drive

Front engine rear wheel drive :-

It is the most conventional type of layout and as the name suggests the engine is
mounted in the front part of vehicle and the drive is transmitted to the rear axle.
e.g.- Bolero XL The drive chain in this layout is
Engine – Clutch – Gearbox - Universal joint - Propeller shaft – Differential-Rear
axle - Wheels.
Advantages:
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1. Balanced weight distribution in vehicle.
2. Simple front axle design with steering mechanism.
3. Better engine cooling by taking full benefits of natural airstream flowing across
the radiator
4. Accessibility to various engine component is easier

Disadvantages:
1. It requires long Propeller shaft to transmit the power from gearbox to
differential.
2. Higher noise transmitted from front engine to driver cabin
3. The rear floor houses the propeller shaft and hence rear legs space is limited.
4. It requires larger brake pads at front wheels because of higher weight being
transmitted on front wheels while deceleration.

Rear engine rear wheel drive

This type of layout eliminates the necessity of propeller shaft. The engine is
mounted at the rear and drive is also transmitted to the rear axle. e.g.- Nano The
drive chain for this layout is – Engine – Clutch – Gearbox-Differential -
Universal joint - Rear drive shafts - Wheels.

Advantages of Rear Wheel Drive -

i) Better handling in dry conditions - accelerating force is applied to the rear

wheels, on which the down force increases, due to load transfer in acceleration,
making the rear tires better able to take simultaneous acceleration and curving than
the front tires.
ii) More predictable steering in low traction conditions (ie: ice or gravel)
because the steering wheels maintain traction and the ability to affect the motion of
the vehicle even if the drive wheels are slipping.
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iii) Less costly and easier maintenance - Rear wheel drive is mechanically
simpler and typically does not involve packing as many parts into as small a space
as does front wheel drive, thus requiring less disassembly or specialized tools in
order to replace parts.
iv) No torque steer.
v) Even weight distribution - The division of weight between the front and rear
wheels has a significant impact on a car's handling, and it is much easier to get a
50/50 weight distribution in a rear wheel drive car than in a front wheel drive car,
as more of the engine can lie between the front and rear wheels (in the case of a
mid engine layout, the entire engine), and the transmission is moved much farther
back.
vi) Steering radius - As no complicated drive shaft joints are required at the front
wheels, it is possible to turn them further than would be possible using front wheel
drive, resulting in a smaller steering radius.
vii) Towing - Rear wheel drive puts the wheels which are pulling the load closer to
the point where a trailer articulates, helping steering, especially for large loads.
vii) Weight transfer during acceleration. (During heavy acceleration, the front
end rises, and more weight is placed on the rear, or driving wheels).

Disadvantages:

1. Natural air cooling of engine is not possible, hence it requires a powerful

radiator fan
2. The clutch and gear shifting mechanism is long and complex.
3. Because of higher weight concentration at rear, the vehicle has a tendency to
oversteer while taking a sharp turn.
4. Luggage space at front is restricted due to small compartment that houses the
fuel tank and spare wheel.

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TYPES OF VEHICLE BODY :-

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Vehicle Body Construction Sketch

NOMENCLATURE OF CAR BODY :-

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AERODYNAMIC BODY SHAPE :- The body of automobile is designed so as to
protect the engine and accessories, as well as passengers from resistance of air,
Therefore it is shaped to reduce the resistance of air as it moves forward. The
various types of air resistances acting on the vehicle while moving forward
includes the under listed :-

1. To overcome the air resistance offered by the air at the front.

2. To overcome the air drag offered by the eddies formed by the air at the rear.

3. To overcome the air lift acting at the bottom of the vehicle

Shaping of car to reduce the resistance of air acting on it is called as streamlining.

The streamlining of the car is done by introducing aerodynamic shape.

Necessity of Aerodynamic Shape of Body:

[1] Due to the increasing demand of efficient and comfortable cars, Automobile
Aerodynamics is an important element in improving the overall performance of
Vehicle.
[2] Air resistance opposes the forward motion of the car. It influences fuel
consumption and attainable maximum speed of vehicle.
[3] Hence it is the design engineer’s task to make the drag coefficient of vehicle as
small as possible by shaping the body aerodynamically.

FEATURES OF AERODYNAMIC SHAPE :- The most important reason of

providing aerodynamic shape to the vehicle body is to minimise the impact of air

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resistance, air drag and air lift acting on to it from front, rear and bottom side of
vehicle respectively. The shaping of vehicle body to reduce air resistance is
defined as the streamlining. The streamlining is done by the introduction of
aerodynamic shapes. The various features of aerodynamic shape includes the under
listed
1. Curved shapes are used instead of angles and flat surfaces. The body of car
enables the air stream to flow over it as well as the sides.

2. Headlights and roofs are better designed so that air can pass easily and less drag
is produced.

3. Floors are made flat and smooth to support venturi effect and produce desirable
downwards aerodynamic forces.

4. The air that rams into the engine bay is used for cooling, combustion and
passengers and then finally ejected under the floor.

5. Dashboard, antenna and roof rails are designed to have a streamlined shape.

IMPORTANCE OF AERODYNAMIC SHAPE :- The importance of providing

aerodynamic shape that is streamlining of vehicle body includes the under listed :-

1. It reduces the air resistance offered by the air at the front.

2. It reduces the air drag offered by the eddies formed by the air at the rear.

3. It reduces the air lift acting at the bottom of the vehicle.

4. It increases the power of the vehicle.

4. It increases the power of the vehicle.

6. It improves the fuel efficiency of vehicle.

Advantages of Aerodynamic Shape of Body

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[1] Reduce Air resistance or air drag.

[2] Reduce driver effort to drive vehicle.

[3] Improve speed of vehicle.

[4] Provide better fuel economy through reducing fuel consumption.

[5] Provide attractive shapes and better aesthetic appearance to the vehicle.

[6] Reduce noise pollution.

[7] Reduce running cost of vehicle.

Layout of Hybrid Vehicle

Generally, a vehicle which can utilize more than one energy sources for
propulsion, it is called as Hybrid Vehicle. So the combination of petrol Engine &
LPG, Diesel Engine & CNG, or Petrol and Battery operated vehicle are the
examples of Hybrid vehicles.

Working of Hybrid Vehicle:

When the driven steps on the pedal the generator convert energy from the engine
into electricity and store it in the battery. The battery then provides power to the
electric motor. The internal combustion engine and electric motor works
simultaneously and each provides power to the power split device. The power split

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device combines both powers and uses it to the transmission. The transmission
then turns the wheel and propels the vehicle.

Advantages of Hybrid Vehicle:

[1] It converts 40 % of the energy stored in petrol to power the vehicle.
[2] It provides moderate speed range (110 mph).
[3] Energy Efficient.
[4] Environment Friendly.
[5] Zero Emission.
[6] Reduce Noise.

Difference between framed and frameless vehicle

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 Advantages of LPG & CNG operated engines:
1. The fuel cost is less.
2. Less pollution and more efficiency.
3. It is safer for vehicle. The LPG/CNG fuel tank is made of thick wall so they can
withstand dynamic explosion, crash test, and direct gunfire.
4. Increased life of lubricating oils, as LPG/CNG does not contaminate and dilute the
crankcase oil. No need of oil change frequently which reduce vehicle maintenance.
5. Due to its antilock property, CNG can be used safely in engine with compression
ratio as high as 12:1 compare to gasoline engine. Because CNG has a higher octane
number than petrol, CNG engines operate at higher compression ratio without
knocking.
6. CNG/LPG fuel systems are sealed, preventing fuel losses from spills or evaporation.

Disadvantages of LPG & CNG operated engines:

1. Space Required for LPG/CNG Cylinder is more.
2. LPG/CNG tank is bulky.
3. More current rated battery is required.
4. Eats entire boots space of vehicle.
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5. Easily not available in rural areas.

Comparison of two wheel and four wheel drive

AUTOMOBILE MARKET IN INDIA :- The Indian automobile industry is the

fastest growing industry in the world. A millions of vehicles are produced annually
in this country. India has emerged as the third largest market in Asia Pacific
regions, with various car manufacturing companies setting up their units, in
different parts of the country. Taking into consideration needs of the vehicle
owners that is range of the vehicle model, capacity and performance of the
vehicles, automobile manufacturing companies are introducing new models and
new features. The increased competition has forced companies to focus on
reducing their product cost, use of improved technology and stylish new designs.

Following are the major vehicle running on the road along with their manufacturer.

1. Maruti Suzuki India – Alto. 800, Eco, Swift, Wagon–R, Zen Estilo, Ritz.
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2. Hundai Motor India – Accent, i10,i20, Santro, Sonata, Verna.

3. Skoda Auto India – Fabia, Laura, Superb.

4. Chevrolet – Forester, Optra, Corsa, Spark.

5. Ford India – Figo, Fiesta, Endevour.

6. Tata Motors – Indica, Indigo, Safari, Sumo, Nano.

7. Mahinda and Mahindra – Bolero, Logan, Scorpio, Xylo.

8. Toyota – Camry, Corolla, Altis, Innova, Etios.

s9. Fiat India –Palio, Petra, Punto.

10. Mitsubhishi – Pajero, Cedia, Lancer.

The category wise share of these vehicles in market is -

1. Passenger cars – about 15.86%

2. Commercial Vehicle – about 4.32%

3. Three wheelers – about 3.58%

4. Two wheelers – about 76.23%

MAJOR components of automobiles with their functions

The major components of an automobile and their functions include:

1. Engine: The engine is the heart of the automobile and converts fuel into
mechanical energy to power the car.

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 2. Transmission: The transmission is responsible for transmitting power from
the engine to the wheels and controlling the speed and torque of the car.

3. Suspension system: The suspension system absorbs shocks and vibrations

from the road and helps to keep the car stable.

4. Brakes: The brakes are used to slow down or stop the car and are an
essential safety feature.

5. Steering mechanism: The steering mechanism allows the driver to control

the direction of the car.

6. Fuel system: The fuel system supplies fuel to the engine and includes
components such as the fuel tank, fuel pump, and fuel lines.

7. Electrical system: The electrical system provides power to the various

electrical components in the car, such as lights, radio, and air conditioning.

8. Exhaust system: The exhaust system removes waste gases from the engine
and helps to reduce emissions.

9. Tires: The tires provide traction and stability on the road and help to transfer
power from the engine to the road.

These are some of the main components of an automobile, and there are many
other components that contribute to the overall function of a car. Each component
plays a critical role in the performance and safety of the automobile.

significance of vehicle layout

The layout of a vehicle is an important factor in determining its performance,

handling, and functionality. Some of the key considerations and benefits of
different vehicle layouts are as follows:

1. Front-wheel drive (FWD): FWD vehicles typically provide better weight

distribution and interior space, making them popular in compact and small
vehicles. They also tend to be more fuel-efficient and easier to maneuver in
tight spaces.

2. Rear-wheel drive (RWD): RWD vehicles provide better traction and

handling, making them popular in performance and luxury vehicles. They

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 also tend to have a more sporty driving experience and better stability in
high-speed driving.

3. Four-wheel drive (4WD or 4x4): 4WD vehicles provide better traction and
stability in off-road conditions, making them popular in SUVs and trucks.
They also tend to be more capable in challenging driving conditions, such as
mud, snow, and rough terrain.

4. All-wheel drive (AWD): AWD vehicles provide improved traction and

stability on all surfaces, making them popular in vehicles that will be driven
in a variety of conditions. They also tend to be more capable in inclement
weather and slippery road conditions.

5. Mid-engine: Mid-engine vehicles provide improved weight distribution and

handling, making them popular in high-performance sports cars. They also
tend to have a more sporty driving experience and better stability in high-
speed driving.

6. Rear-engine: Rear-engine vehicles provide improved weight distribution and

stability, making them popular in some early sports cars and specialty
vehicles. They also tend to have a unique driving experience, with more
power directed to the rear wheels.

The choice of vehicle layout will depend on the specific requirements of the
vehicle, including driving conditions, performance, and cargo capacity. In general,
the layout of a vehicle plays a significant role in determining its performance,
handling, and overall functionality.

vehile layout

The layout of a vehicle refers to the arrangement of its major components,

including the engine, transmission, wheels, and passengers. There are several
common vehicle layouts, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The
most common vehicle layouts are:

1. Front-wheel drive (FWD): In a front-wheel drive layout, the engine and

transmission are located at the front of the vehicle, and the power is
transferred to the front wheels. This layout is popular in compact and small
vehicles because it provides better weight distribution and more interior
space.

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 2. Rear-wheel drive (RWD): In a rear-wheel drive layout, the engine and
transmission are located at the rear of the vehicle, and the power is
transferred to the rear wheels. This layout is popular in performance and
luxury vehicles because it provides better traction and handling.

3. Four-wheel drive (4WD or 4x4): In a four-wheel drive layout, power is

transferred to all four wheels, providing better traction and stability in off-
road conditions.

4. All-wheel drive (AWD): In an all-wheel drive layout, power is transferred to

all four wheels, providing better traction and stability on all surfaces.

5. Mid-engine: In a mid-engine layout, the engine is located between the front

and rear wheels. This layout is popular in high-performance sports cars
because it provides better weight distribution and handling.

6. Rear-engine: In a rear-engine layout, the engine is located at the rear of the

vehicle. This layout is less common, but was popular in some early sports
cars and is still used in some specialty vehicles today.

Each vehicle layout has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice
depends on the specific requirements of the vehicle, such as driving conditions,
performance, and cargo capacity.

function of chassis frame and body.

The chassis frame is the backbone of the vehicle, providing support for all the
other components, such as the engine, transmission, suspension, and body. The
chassis frame is usually made of steel or aluminum and is designed to withstand
the forces generated by the vehicle, including weight, acceleration, and turning.

The body of the vehicle is the outer shell that provides protection for the
passengers and cargo. It is typically made of steel, aluminum, or composite
materials and is attached to the chassis frame. The body includes the roof, doors,
hood, trunk, and other components that give the vehicle its shape and style.

The combination of the chassis frame and body provides a strong and rigid
structure that protects the passengers and cargo, while also providing a platform for
the other components, such as the engine, suspension, and transmission. Together,
they form the foundation of the vehicle, providing the stability and strength needed
for safe and reliable operation.
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Classification of chassis frames

Chassis frames are classified based on their design and construction, including:

1. Ladder Frame: A ladder frame is a simple and robust design that consists of
two parallel side members and cross members connecting them. This type of
frame is commonly used in heavy-duty vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs,
due to its strength and durability.

2. Backbone Frame: A backbone frame is similar to a ladder frame, but with a

single, central member running the length of the vehicle to which the side
members and cross members are attached. This type of frame provides
improved stiffness and stability, making it well-suited for high-performance
vehicles.

3. Monocoque Frame: A monocoque frame is a unitized structure in which the

body and chassis are integrated into a single component, providing strength
and rigidity without the need for a separate frame. This type of frame is
commonly used in passenger cars and sports cars, as it provides improved
handling and ride comfort.

4. Space Frame: A space frame is a type of frame that consists of

interconnected struts and nodes, forming a rigid and lightweight structure.
This type of frame is commonly used in high-performance vehicles, as it
provides excellent stiffness and strength with minimal weight.

5. Modular Frame: A modular frame is a type of frame that consists of

interchangeable components, allowing for flexibility and ease of
manufacture. This type of frame is commonly used in commercial vehicles,
as it provides a flexible platform for a variety of applications.

Each type of chassis frame has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the best
choice will depend on the specific requirements of the vehicle, such as weight,
performance, and durability. The choice of frame can have a significant impact on
the performance, handling, and overall functionality of the vehicle.

Significance of body streamlining

Body streamlining is the process of shaping the body of a vehicle in such a way as
to reduce aerodynamic drag and improve its efficiency. The significance of body
streamlining can be summarized as follows:
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 1. Fuel Efficiency: Streamlining the body of a vehicle reduces aerodynamic
drag, which in turn improves fuel efficiency. This is because the vehicle
requires less energy to overcome air resistance and maintain its speed,
resulting in reduced fuel consumption.

2. Performance: Body streamlining can improve the performance of a vehicle

by reducing drag and increasing its top speed and acceleration. This is
especially important for high-performance vehicles, such as sports cars and
racing cars, where reducing drag can have a significant impact on
performance.

3. Stability: Streamlining the body of a vehicle can also improve its stability at
high speeds by reducing turbulence and wind resistance. This can lead to
improved handling and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.

4. Aerodynamics: Body streamlining helps to reduce aerodynamic drag and

increase the aerodynamics of a vehicle. This can result in improved
handling, stability, and performance, as well as reduced wind noise and
improved fuel efficiency.

5. Design: Body streamlining also has an impact on the design of a vehicle.

Streamlined bodies tend to be more aesthetically pleasing and can enhance
the overall look of the vehicle.

Overall, body streamlining is an important consideration in the design of vehicles,

as it can have a significant impact on the performance, fuel efficiency, and stability
of the vehicle. The process of body streamlining involves a complex combination
of design, engineering, and testing, and is an important factor in the development
of modern vehicles.

Explain basic terms related to car aerodynamics as , drag, lift, skin friction,
form drag, wake, coefficient of drag

The following are basic terms related to car aerodynamics:

1. Drag: Drag is the force exerted by the air on a moving object in the direction
opposite to its motion. In the context of car aerodynamics, drag refers to the
force that opposes the forward motion of a vehicle, and is related to the
shape, size, and speed of the vehicle.
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 2. Lift: Lift is the force exerted by the air on an object that is perpendicular to
the direction of motion. In the context of car aerodynamics, lift refers to the
force that acts to lift the vehicle off the ground and is generally considered
undesirable in passenger cars.

3. Skin Friction: Skin friction is the friction between the air and the surface of
the vehicle. It is caused by the viscosity of the air and the roughness of the
surface, and is related to the shape and texture of the vehicle's body.

4. Form Drag: Form drag, also known as pressure drag, is caused by the
pressure difference between the front and rear of the vehicle. It is related to
the shape and size of the vehicle, and is a major component of the total drag
force.

5. Wake: Wake is the region of air that is disturbed by the passage of a vehicle.
It is characterized by a decrease in pressure and an increase in turbulence,
and is directly related to the drag force experienced by the vehicle.

6. Coefficient of Drag (Cd): The coefficient of drag is a dimensionless number

that describes the drag experienced by a vehicle as a function of its speed,
size, and shape. A lower coefficient of drag indicates a more aerodynamic
shape and lower drag force, while a higher coefficient of drag indicates a
less aerodynamic shape and higher drag force.

These terms are fundamental to the study of car aerodynamics and are used to
describe and analyze the aerodynamic performance of vehicles. By understanding
these concepts, engineers and designers can work to improve the aerodynamics of
vehicles and achieve better fuel efficiency, performance, and stability.

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