The systems that make up a car and how they connect — for internal-combustion, hybrid and electric vehicles.
A modern car is the product of dozens of systems working together: some handle propulsion, others handle control, comfort and safety. The overall map of these systems is nearly the same for any car, but their internals differ significantly depending on the powertrain — a gasoline or diesel engine, LPG/CNG equipment, a hybrid setup, or a fully electric drive. Below is a general map of the car's structure, followed by a closer look at each system.
Choose a type to see how energy flows from its source to the wheels
Fuel (gasoline, diesel or gas) burns inside the engine's cylinders, and the released energy becomes torque. It travels through the transmission to the wheels, while exhaust gases are carried away by the exhaust system.
A hybrid combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor powered by a traction battery. A control unit splits the load between them to save fuel, and under braking some energy returns to the battery — this is called regeneration.
A traction battery powers one or more electric motors that turn the wheels directly, through a reduction gear. The battery is charged from an external source, and under braking part of the energy is recovered back into it.
Seven groups of assemblies found in almost every car
The car's source of motion: an internal combustion engine in gasoline, diesel and gas-powered cars, or an electric motor with an inverter in hybrids and EVs.
Components
Carries torque from the powertrain to the wheels. ICE cars use a clutch or torque converter with a multi-speed gearbox; EVs typically use a single-speed reduction gear.
Components
Keeps the car in contact with the road and provides handling and ride comfort: suspension, steering, brakes and wheels work the same way regardless of drivetrain type.
Components
The car's structural base that carries every other system, along with the elements that protect occupants in a collision.
Components
Stores the energy needed for motion. ICE cars use a fuel tank holding gasoline, diesel or gas; hybrids and EVs use a traction battery with its own management and charging system.
Components
The low-voltage network, sensors and control units that tie every system together and make the car "smart".
Components
Everything around the driver and passengers: controls, seating, and systems that reduce the risk of injury.
Components