1. Engine: The engine burns fuel to create heat and expansion of gases, which generate power. In internal combustion engines, this power is created through a series of explosions in the cylinders. In electric vehicles, the electric motor converts electrical energy directly into mechanical energy.
2. Transmission: The transmission is a set of gears with different sizes and ratios that allow the engine/motor to adjust its speed and power output to suit the car's speed and driving conditions. By shifting gears, the transmission can change the ratio between the engine's revolutions and the wheels' rotation.
3. Driveline: The driveline transfers the power from the transmission to the wheels. In most rear-wheel drive cars, the driveline includes a driveshaft that runs from the transmission to the rear axle. In front-wheel drive cars, the transmission is connected to the front wheels through CV (constant velocity) joints. In all-wheel drive vehicles, the driveline consists of a transfer case that distributes power to both the front and rear wheels.
4. Wheels and Tires: The wheels and tires are in contact with the road surface and provide traction for the car to move. The wheels rotate on bearings, which reduce friction and allow them to spin smoothly. The tires are made of rubber and provide grip and traction on the road.
5. Suspension: The suspension system connects the wheels to the car body and absorbs shocks and vibrations from the road. It consists of springs, shock absorbers, and other components that work together to provide a smooth and comfortable ride.
When you press the accelerator pedal, the engine or electric motor receives a signal to increase power output. This power is then transferred through the driveline to the wheels, causing them to rotate. The rotation of the wheels creates friction between the tires and the road surface, which propels the car forward.
The speed and acceleration of the car depend on various factors, including the power of the engine/motor, the gear selected, the traction provided by the tires, and the aerodynamic resistance encountered by the car as it moves through the air.
