Major Systems of an Automotive
Automobiles are made up of several
components, assemblies and systems. The growing auto industry has
given rise to a growing auto component industry also. India has
emerged as global outsourcing hub for manufacturing of various
automobile components. All major Companies like Toyota, Hyundai,
Ford, Volvo, Renault and Daimler Chrysler and others are now sourcing
their automotive components from Indian manufacturers.
The auto components industry is
predominantly divided into five segments: Engine parts Drive
Transmission & Steering Parts Suspension & Brake Parts
Electrical Parts Body and chassis Global automobile manufacturers see
India as a manufacturing hub for auto components due to: Low cost
labour force and availability of raw material which makes India cost
competitive. India has an established manufacturing base. Major
international auto-components including Delphi, Visteon, Bosch and
Meritor have set up operations in India. Automobile manufacturers and
auto component manufacturers have set up International Purchasing
Offices (IPOs) in India. Fine-quality components are manufactured in
India. India is a global hub for R&D: GM, Daimler Chrysler,
Bosch, Suzuki, Johnson Controls etc. All have their research centre
in India. In this Unit, you will learn about various components and
systems that makeup a complete automobile. Therefore you will be
introduced to engine and its part, Body and chassis, Drive
Transmission & Steering Parts, Suspension & Brake Parts,
Electrical Parts and other systems that make it possible for running
of an automobile.
CHASSIS FRAME AND AUTO BODY
Chassis is a French term and was
initially used to denote the frame or main structure of a vehicle.
The Chassis contains all the major units necessary to propel the
vehicle, guide its motion, stop it, and allow it to run smoothly over
uneven surfaces. It is the main mounting for all the components
including the body. It is also known as carrying unit.
The chassis includes the following
major components:
1. Major part of a chassis is a steel
frame.
2. In case of a passenger car the whole
body is also an integral part of the chassis. However, in commercial
vehicles like trucks & buses the body is not a part of the
chassis. Therefore a chassis is almost a complete vehicle except
body, other accessories which are not involved in the movement of the
vehicle.
3. Other major components like Engine,
Transmission System, Front & Rear Axle, Steering System,
Suspension System, Wheels Tires & Brakes.
