Here's a simplified timeline:
* Early Automobiles (late 1800s): The first gasoline-powered vehicles had rudimentary exhaust systems, often just open pipes that directly expelled gases into the atmosphere. These were incredibly noisy and polluting.
* Early 1900s: As engines became more sophisticated, the need for more refined exhaust systems arose. Early exhaust systems included mufflers and rudimentary catalytic converters to reduce noise and some pollutants.
* 1960s - Present: Stricter emissions regulations led to significant advancements in exhaust technology. This includes more efficient catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, and other components designed to reduce harmful emissions like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons.
Therefore, it's more accurate to say that automotive exhaust systems evolved over time, with continuous improvements driven by technological advancements and environmental concerns.
