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WHAT IS AUTOMOBILE?

An automobile, motor car or car is a wheeled motor vehicle used for transporting passengers, which also carries its own engine or motor. Most definitions of the term specify that automobiles are designed to run primarily on roads, to have seating for one to eight people, to typically have four wheels, and to be constructed principally for the transport of people rather than goods.[1] However, the term automobile is far from precise, because there are many types of vehicles that do similar tasks.

LITTLE MORE:

Automobile is a generic term to describe a wheeled vehicle that carries its own engine. Often the term is used specifically to refer to a car, though it is broad enough to cover cars, trucks, vans, station wagons, SUVs and crossovers. Significant numbers of automobiles first began appearing in the late 1800s.

Related terms: car, tire, automotive, waste oil, grease, oil, petroleum, petroleum hydrocarbons, TPH, total petroleum hydrocarbons, diesel, unleaded, gasoline, fuel, solvents, VOCs, volatile organic compounds, carbon dichloride, PERC, Perchloroethylene, tetrachloroethene, Tetrachloroethylene, TCE trichloroethene, Trichloroethylene, BTEX, Benzene, Ethylbenzene, Ethyl Benzene, Toluene, Xylene, MTBE, methyl t-butyl ether.
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Automobile Manufacturers

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Auto Insurance

Auto Insurance FAQs

What does "full coverage" mean?
The term full coverage generally means that the insurance policy has both liability coverage and coverage for damage to your vehicle. The term full coverage does not mean that "everything" is covered no matter what happens. Your auto insurance Policy Declaration page lists the coverage you have selected. A Farmers agent will discuss with you available coverages to help you select the insurance coverage that fits your needs and budget.

Am I covered if I drive someone else's vehicle?
Generally speaking, the insurance goes with the car. For example, if you have an accident while driving someone else's car, the owner's insurance would apply toward damages first. Your auto insurance would generally apply in the event the owner of the vehicle had no auto insurance or did not have enough auto insurance to pay the damages. For specific information and guidance on your coverage in this situation, contact your local Farmers agent.

If I rent a car, do I have coverage?
Car rental companies charge daily fees for "CDW" coverage (which means their insurance will pay for all damages covered in your rental agreement). Rental car coverage under a private passenger policy varies state by state. Check your policy or contact your local Farmers agent.

Will my policy be cancelled if I have an accident?
Generally, being in an accident will not cause your policy to be canceled. However, after the facts of the situation are reviewed, you may be required to pay a higher premium for your policy upon renewal. Your personal Farmers agent will help you understand the potential increases if an accident does occur.


Premium Questions

Why do auto insurance premiums change?
Auto insurance premiums change for the same reasons that the price of other goods and services you buy change.

Insurance companies incur the same costs you do in buying goods and servcies, and these costs can ultimately affect your insurance premium. Costs affecting the ultimate price of auto insurance include:

  • Medical costs to treat injuries
  • Auto repair costs
  • Costs to adjust claims
  • Inflation
  • Uninsured drivers (your policy pays when the other driver doesn't have an auto insurance policy if you purchase Uninsured Motorist coverage)

Although insurance companies can't directly control these costs, we regularly monitor them to see how they are affecting the costs of the claims we pay. As they change, auto premiums must be adjusted. These costs can affect your auto insurance premium whether or not you individually have had an accident or claim.

Changes you make to your auto insurance policy or coverage may also change the premiums. Adding or removing a driver, buying a new car, moving to a new location or changing how you use your car may influence the cost of your auto insurance.

Controlling Insurance Costs

What is Farmers doing to control car insurance costs?

  • We have a network of reliable auto repair facilities for the highest quality repairs at competitive prices.
  • We vigorously oppose frivolous lawsuits.
  • We have an active Anti Fraud Unit.
  • We offer a youth driving safety education program to all parents of young drivers.
  • We actively support organizations devoted to auto safety, including funding anti-drunk driving efforts and those dedicated to improving youth driving safety.
  • We offer Annual policies to keep your rates stable.
  • We offer the Farmers Flex program to lock in your rates and forgive you for accidents.
What deductible should I choose?
The higher the deductible, the lower the premium - but the more you'll pay out of pocket in case of a claim. The lower the deductible, the higher the premium - but the less you'll pay if you have an insured claim.
Does the kind of car I drive influence my auto insurance rates?
The car you drive can have a substantial impact on your auto insurance premium, especially the amount you pay for your comprehensive and collision coverages. The insurance rates for comprehensive and collision coverage are determined by looking at the type of vehicle loss history - how often it is stolen, and how costly it is to repair or replace after an accident. Your Farmers agent can help you by letting you know which vehicles are better insurance values.

Discounts

What kinds of auto insurance discounts does Farmers offer?
Farmers offers many auto insurance discounts to help keep your auto insurance premiums as low as possible. Discounts vary by state.Types of discounts available include:

  • Accident Free: In some states you may be eligible for a discount based on your driving history.
  • Good Student: Drivers under 25 years of age who are full-time students in high school or college and have good grades may qualify.
  • Auto/Home: You can save money on both auto and homeowners insurance by purchasing both of these policies from Farmers.
  • Multi-Car: If you own two or more vehicles and insure both of them with Farmers, you may qualify for the Multi-Car discount.
  • Teen Driver: Teens who complete the Y.E.S. (You're Essential to Safety) driver safety awareness program may qualify for a discount.
  • Alternative Fuel - Owners who drive hybrids and other alternative fuel vehicles may save 5% on all major coverages.

Safe Cars

What are the safest cars to drive?
Even the safest cars are dangerous if not driven safely. However, discounts are available for drivers who drive cars with air bags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. Additionally, your Farmers agent can help you by letting you know which vehicles are better insurance values.

Does my financing affect my insurance needs?
Some leasing and auto loan companies require specific levels of coverage. Your Farmers agent can assist you in determining how much coverage best suits your situation.

Special Coverages

Are there special coverage options for new cars?
Farmers offers the New Car Pledge®, a guarantee for newly purchased vehicles. We'll replace it with a new one of the same make and model, at full market value without depreciation, as long as the car has less than 24,000 miles and is a maximum of two model years old. Additionally, if your new car is repairable, only original equipment manufacturer parts will be used when available.

I had a new CD player installed in my car. Am I covered?
Under the Comprehensive and Collision portion of your policy, optional equipment (a CD player for example) is covered only if permanently installed in the opening of the dash where the manufacturer would normally install such equipment.

An endorsement is available to provide coverage for optional equipment not permanently installed in the dash and for theft of items such as tapes, discs or other equipment designed for the reproduction of sound.

Collectible Auto Insurance FAQs

Does Farmers offer insurance for Collectible Autos?
Yes, Farmers has partnered with Foremost Insurance to offer collectible auto insurance in the continental United States. Foremost is part of Farmers.

Are there discounts available for collectible auto insurance coverage?
Yes, Foremost Insurance offers a multi-vehicle discount when you insure more than one collectible auto. Policy discounts vary by state.

Insurance Risk Indicators

Questions You May Have About Insurance Risk Indicators

When it comes to insurance, we know you want quality coverage from a solid, dependable company. You want the peace of mind that comes with knowing, in the event you need us, we'll be there to help you get your life back to where it belongs quickly, compassionately and with as little hassle as possible. And you feel, rightfully so, that if you are a good risk, you should be rewarded with lower insurance costs. We understand that you want all of the above at the best price possible. At Farmers, we are always looking for new ways to keep the cost of insurance affordable. To do this, we use a tool called the Risk Assessment Indicator.

What is a Farmers Risk Assessment Indicator?

A Farmers Risk Assessment Indicator is a code developed from and based upon credit report information. Depending on the kind of policy, Farmers' underwriters may use this indicator along with motor vehicle records, loss reports and/or other information to rate auto and/or homeowner insurance policies. Risk Assessment Indicators are highly predictive of future claims activities, and the use of indicators allows Farmers to charge customers a rate that is appropriate to the risk insured.

Where do Risk Assessment Indicators come from?

Risk Assessment Indicators are based on information from consumer credit reports from one of three institutions: Choicepoint, Equifax or CSC Credit Services.

Information used may include:

  • Length of credit history
  • Late payments, collections

What's not included in a Risk Assessment Indicator?

Risk Assessment Indicators do not use the following information:
  • Ethnic group
  • Marital Status
  • Religion
  • Nationality
  • Age
  • Familial Status
  • Income
  • Disability
  • Gender
  • Address

Who at Farmers has access to my credit information?

We believe in your right to privacy. Your agent and members of the agency staff do not have access to your credit file. You can, however, obtain a copy of your credit report from the consumer reporting agency that provided the information used to calculate your Risk Assessment Indicator.

Why does Farmers use Risk Assessment Indicators?

Industry experts have proven that a strong correlation exists between credit history and insurance risk. Because credit history is generally accepted to be a fair and accurate way to predict probability of future loss, Farmers Risk Assessment Indicator uses credit data to determine discount availability for applicants and customers. Please keep in mind that this is only one of several factors used in determining your premium.

Can I improve my RAI and, if so, how?

You can improve your indicator over time by using credit responsibly. A Risk Assessment Indicator is a snapshot of your insurance risk based on information in your credit report. It's a good idea to periodically obtain a copy of your credit report from the major credit bureaus to check for any inaccuracies.

Farmers recommends that if you need assistance with understanding your credit history or advice on using credit responsibly, you should contact a qualified credit counselor. Farmers Agents and employees are not qualified credit counselors.

What if I don't get the best discount as a result of my Indicator?

The Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires that we tell you if we take adverse action based upon information contained in your credit report. We will give you the name of the credit bureau that provided the information and advise you of certain rights you have under the FCRA so you can address any errors that might appear on your credit report.

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AUTO INSURANCE

What is Auto Insurance?

Auto insurance helps you to protect you and your family against financial loss in the event of an accident or other cause of loss. It covers the injuries and damages caused by an accident and for which you are legally responsible. It may also cover the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it is damaged or stolen.

What if I don't have car insurance?

In most states, you're required to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance (or post a bond) and also provide proof of insurance before you can license your vehicle or renew your driver's license. If you are caught driving without car insurance, you may have to pay a large fine, have your driver's license suspended, and/or have your car impounded. Contact your local Farmers agent to find out what the specific requirements are in your state for car insurance quotes.

How much Auto insurance coverage should I purchase?

The required minimum coverage may not be enough to pay for all the damages that result from an accident, and the legally responsible driver will have to pay the additional expenses out of pocket. You may want to speak with an agent to discuss the best auto insurance coverage for your needs and budget.

How can I keep my auto premiums down?

Generally, the longer you drive without major citations or accidents, the lower your premium will be. You may also qualify for discounts based on safety features on your vehicle. Farmers also offers an Annual Policy which keeps your rates stable for the entire year. We calculate your insurance costs for the year, and you don't have to worry about changes for a whole 12 months. Furthermore, with the FarmersFlex Program you can lock in your base rates, and qualify for accident forgiveness for up to 3 years. Also, if you insure additional cars or your home with Farmers you can save on all your premiums. For further information, contact your Farmers agent.

Why should I insure my car with Farmers?

With Farmers, you get a local professional agent, who can offer you insurance coverage to meet your auto, home, life and small business insurance needs, simplifying your life and enabling you to save with multi-line discounts. Your Farmers agent can talk to you about which discounts you may be eligible for. Farmers is committed to serving the needs of its customers, with unparalleled customer and claims service.
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HISTORY

History

The earliest ancestor of the modern automobile was created by Nicolas Joseph Cugnot in 1771 for the French minister of war. The vehicle had a steam-powered engine and rode on three wheels, achieving a maximum speed of 2-3 miles per hour. It was known as the Fardier and was never put into production as it was less practical than a horse-drawn vehicle.

Several other steam-powered automobiles were created over the following hundred years. Belgian-born Jean Joseph Etienne Lenoir, who settled in Paris and became a naturalized French citizen, invented his gas engine (2-stroke) in 1858 and patented it in 1860. He used electric spark ignition, but the engine ran on stove gas and had no compression. It was shown to the press in a three-wheeled cart in 1860. A liquid-fuel version (4-stroke, based on the cycle of Beau de Rochas), with a primitive carburettor, was built in 1862 and installed in a three-wheeled wagon early in 1863. It is on record that it successfully covered the 18 kilometres from Paris to Joinville-le-Pont and back, securing its place in history as the first spark-ignition petroleum-fuel car to demonstrate its roadworthiness. Etienne Lenoir didn't continue his work on cars and the following step in this development was the invention of the gasoline powered internal combustion engine and its use by Gotlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach in 1889. The automobile they built had four wheels, a 2 cylinder 1.5 liter engine and a four speed transmission. It traveled as fast as 10 miles per hour. The same year, another German, Karl Benz, also created a gasoline-powered automobile. However, not until automobiles were able to be produced in quantity did they become accepted as a serious alternative to horse drawn conveyances. The first automobile produced in a considerable quantity was the Curved Dash Oldsmobile in 1901 by Ransom E. Olds.

Modern manufacturers

There are several hundred manufacturers of automobiles today. Manufacturers are not to be confused with makes or brands, as many manufacturers have multiple brands. The largest manufacturers in the world today are:

Larger manufacturers will often hold shares in the smaller ones, and it is not uncommon for shares as well as entire brands to be bought and sold to other manufactures or investors. Throughout the initial years of the 21st century, General Motors has been losing world-wide market share, while Toyota has been steadily closing the gap between the two companies. Profitability issues in the second half of 2006 caused DaimlerChrysler to sell the Chrysler group (including Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep) to a private investment firm, and rebrand itself as Daimler AG.

List of major manufacturers and brands

The following is a list of the major automobile manufacturers and the brands they own and manufacture.

BMW AG

Chrysler LLC

Daimler AG

Fiat S.p.A.

Ford Motor Company

Fuji Heavy Industries (Toyota owns 20% of Fuji Heavy Industries)

General Motors

Honda Motor Company

Hyundai Kia Automotive Group

Isuzu Motors

Mitsubishi Motors

Nissan Motor Company (Renault owns ~44% of Nissan)

Porsche AG

PSA Peugeot Citroën

Renault

Toyota Motor Corporation

Volkswagen AG (Porsche owns ~30% of VAG)

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Auto Insurance for High Risk Drivers

Auto insurance can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Even those labeled as “high risk drivers” can find affordable auto coverage, although good deals may be harder to come by. As always, shopping around for the best deal is your best tool for finding affordable auto insurance for high risk drivers.

What is a High Risk Driver?
The short explanation of a high risk driver is one who poses a high financial risk to the auto insurance company. In other words, someone that is likely to cost them money. There are typically two different classifications of high risk drivers.

The most common type of high risk drivers are younger, unexperienced drivers. Statistically these drivers are more likely to be Involved in an accident, and the auto insurance companies know this better than anyone. Assuming you have a relatively clean driving record, you’re likely to see a rate decrease around your 25th birthday, when most auto insurance providers stop considering you to be high risk.

The second group of high risk drivers consists of DUI offenders, those with multiple speeding tickets, and accident prone drivers. If either of these groups sounds like you, the auto insurance companies may consider you a high risk driver.

Why Do High Risk Drivers Have to Pay More?
The name say it all. These driver are very risky, and often times expensive to insure, because the chance of the insurance provider having to pay for repairs, medical bills, and property damage is much higher. In order to cover themselves financially, they must charge higher rates to those more likely to wind up in an accident.

Save Money on High Risk Auto Insurance

Proving to the auto insurance companies that you are in fact a safe and responsible driver can go a long way when it comes to saving on high risk auto coverage. Luckily there are many ways to do this. The most popular and effective way to do so is to take a defensive or safe driving course, which you can find more information on from your local DMV office.

A car with a good safety reputation, and all the latest safety devices will also greatly reduce the risk you pose to your insurance provider. Such safety devices include automatic seat belts, anti-lock breaks , and airbags. Fast or “tricked out” cars are a definite no-no for high risk drivers, and driving such a car can greatly increase your premiums.

If you stand any chance of finding and affordable rate on car insurance, you must get quotes from as many companies as possible. This step is made easy by simply entering your zip code above. You’ll then be presented with the best offers auto insurance has to offer. And yes, even high risk drivers can incredible deals from the leading companies, and even providers that specialize in the field.


High risk car insurance companies :

The best way to reduce those pesky premium hikes when a consumer has a few dings on their driving record is to shop around and compare multiple auto ins companies. There is such a thing as a company that focuses their business on securing only older non-risky drivers, but there are also carriers that are profitable or maybe even target risky motorists and more willing to accept an elevated risk.

The non-standard market specializes in covering those with a history of offenses or claims, are new to driving, or have bad credit by creating programs that would benefit these individuals. Usually these insurers offer these programs with a much lower rate to serve as an incentive to draw consumers away from their competition that do not have such programs and are charging more for coverage. Factors such as being a good student or driving courses taken can offer discounts to the insured that would help offset the cost of coverage and reduce the monthly payments of their premiums.

For those who continue to have a problem finding an insurer to accept them and insure them, they can refer to the assigned risk program for assistance.

Cheap Auto Insurance for high risk driving records :

A driving record that is loaded with offenses are most commonly classified as high risk by the companies and this is the determining factor in expensive premiums or denial of coverage. A consumer may not be able to find the right coverage or is fed up with being denied. OnlineAutoInsurance.com is here to help those individuals in finding cheaper car insurance rates from from reputable companies. We understand that there are troubles in finding the right policy and being accepted into that policy, therefore OnlineAutoInsurance.com helps the motorists by carrying a large pool of insurers and many of them offering great coverage at a low price. Visit the site today to learn more on which companies there are that offer discounts and packages that would not only accept riskier drivers, but also save them money.

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How Automobiles Work?

In Brief:

The majority of western modern society holds a special place in their collective heart for the automobile, and regards them as indispensable to life itself. This of course is an over-glorification, but an understandable one when you think about the many benefits that they can bring to us on a daily basis.

And so, whenever they are criticized for pollution reasons, people from all walks of life leap to their defense with a gusto that few other topics could rouse.

Safety campaigners get a more sympathetic ear, as almost all owners and drivers worry about this as well (whether they admit it or not) but when it comes to criticizing that driving force of modern living - the internal combustion engine, then those daring to raise the possibility of ‘alternatives’ are often either insulted or ignored.

In time this may change as other technologies improve, but for now an assault on the automobile is seen as an assault on freedom, and anyway, pollution from cars is slowly being controlled.

So, dismissing this to the back of the mind is a common behavior, and the car is King.

As long as it works.

Mechanically Speaking

Then we find a paradox. Mechanics, who keep cars on the road when they need mending after all, are often viewed more as villains out to trick the honest owner, rather than heroes who come to the rescue.

They take too long to do anything, and overcharge for what they do. This seems to be the usual response from most citizens, and often borne by experience (or at least by perception anyways).

Some auto shops are indeed the dens of iniquity, but to tar all with the same brush is very unfair, as automobiles are complex things indeed. So let’s just have a simple overview of how things work, rather than try to wade through all the nuances and subsections that would be involved in a really close and detailed look at the workings of an automobile.

All about Strokes

The internal combustion engine itself is of course the main center of action, this is where all the power comes from needed to drive the wheels and allow for the mobile part of automobile.

There are different types of these engines, but since almost all cars have a piston engine design, then that is what we shall consider.

These pistons are forced up and down inside tubes known as cylinders in a cycle that is made up of four strokes (a stroke being a movement, either up or down, of a piston) and each piston has a connecting rod that leads to what is known as a crankshaft.

At the top of each cylinder (it is common to have four, six or eight, sometimes more). And how they are arranged can describe an engine type - either inline or straight, with the cylinders in a row: a flat, or horizontally opposed, or boxer where they are in opposite pairs: and v where they are configured in a v angle) are two valves known as the intake valve and the exhaust valve, as well as an opening for a spark plug (which provides the voltage to light things up) between them. The inlet valve is where the mixture of gasoline and air enters, and after combustion the exhaust valves allows the burnt fuel out again.

Suck

The intake stroke is first; this the where the piston starts off at TDC (Top Dead Center) and begins to descend, as it does this the intake valve is opened by the valve train. This is controlled by the camshaft and timed so that the valves and pistons move in unison. Nowadays this is simpler as the camshaft is sited above the valves (overhead cams) but the linkage used to time the valve openings on older engines is longer as the camshaft is positioned beneath near the sump (oil-pan).

When the intake valve is open the fuel enters; in old style carburetors the gasoline and air is mixed as they enter the cylinder. Fuel injection allows for better control and timing of this process, and there are two basic types; port fuel injection, where the mix is sent to above the intake valve; and direct fuel injection, where it is pressed directly through.

As the piston falls, more fuel enters, either sucked in by air pressure or injected, until the cylinder is full (how much will depend on its cubic capacity, or cc) and this is the end of the first of the four stroke cycle.

Squeeze

Now the intake valve will close, and the compression stroke begins as the piston starts to rise on its return to TDC, compressing the air/ fuel mix tightly into a small space just beneath the spark plug, from where a small surge of voltage ignites the mix and causes an explosive combustion.

Bang

This is the power stroke, where a sudden blast of heat and pressure pushes the piston down again with a mighty force, and as the piston reaches BDC (Bottom Dead Center) then the exhaust valve is opened by the camshaft.

Blow

The exhaust stroke is the fourth in order, and here the pressure is released and the burnt fuel sent off the to the exhaust system ( to where a catalytic converter can remove a lot of the pollutants) enabling the piston to rise once more to lower again in the next intake stroke, so completing the four stroke cycle.

Too Much of a Good Thing

All this generates considerable heat (which is essential of course) but too much of this causes problems, so engines must be cooled. The coolant usually consists of a blend of water and antifreeze, that is pumped around the engine by a camshaft or crankshaft powered pump to absorb the excess heat and remove it from the immediate vicinity.

It takes this thermal energy to the radiator, where the rush of through air disperses it to the outside environment, and cools the water so that it can return and collect more heat from the pistons.

Timing the Cycle

So with internal combustion engines (as with much else in life) timing is everything, things must work in harmony to maximize effectiveness, and listening to a healthily revving engine is music indeed to a mechanic’s ear.

Though it isn’t only the pistons and valves that need to be timed, the spark plugs follow a plan as well, and demand the voltage necessary for their sparking in only the correct strict operating order, which is controlled by the distributor.

Lighting the Spark

But where does all this energy come from to start things off if it’s a cycle? That’s where the electric starter system is so valuable. This power comes from the battery, which is needed for all electrical components in the car and draws the necessary voltage from the chemical reaction of its positive and negative plates, and the electrolyte solution (the mix of water and sulfuric acid that it contains).

This powers a starter solenoid which causes the engine just to give a few revolutions of its relevant parts so that the combustion cycle can begin. This takes quite a bit of energy, because as well as friction the starter has to overcome the pressure of any pistons which were in compression stroke when the engine was turned off, as well as the power to turn the camshaft and get those valves going.

All this saves having to use a hand crank for example; the rapid turning of these from a heavily breathing motorist was a common sight in the dawn of automobiles, so without electric power (which is seen now again as a deadly rival for gasoline) the whole caboodle would be a lot more troublesome.

Luckily though, the battery is recharged in a short time from the alternator once the engine has started, so nowadays should not get flat (unless you leave your lights on, the battery is used for more than just the starter remember).

Lubrication, Rings and Rods

So that’s the basic thing going, but an engine just can’t turn the wheels that easily; to allow for this, each piston has rings and a connecting rod that leads to the aforementioned crankshaft. Every rod is moveable at both ends and have shell bearings at the small-end (where they are attached to the piston, by way of a pin) and at the big-end (where they join the crankshaft) which are lubricated by pressurized oil that is forced between them and the moving parts they attach to for the reduction of wear through friction. This relative freedom of movement is to allow for the change of angle as the pistons move up and down, so that the energy can be transferred without interruption to the crankshaft, which is where engine torque is to be found.

Torque is a twisting force, and this is what the crankshaft is for; converting the energy delivered to it from the pistons into a rotating motion to get the wheels going. So this crankshaft is at the very heart of the whole system, and as such, needs to be well lubricated. For this purpose, the sump (oil-pan) is right at the bottom of the engine and surrounds the twisting crankshaft, and oil is also pumped around through oil lines to the crankshaft bearings and crankpins, and everywhere else that it is needed, like the camshaft and of course, the pistons themselves.

Flywheel Fly

So the crankshaft creates the rotary motion for movement, and to help it has an assistant called a flywheel which is a revolving weight. This is because the pistons send their energy (properly called reciprocating motion) in surges akin to a pulse in some ways, and so that this does not cause a lot of vibration at the crankshaft, the flywheel is utilized to provide an inertia of its own that counteracts these surges and leads to a more even transition of all that energy.

More Power

So the faster the crankshaft turns, the faster the car can go. And some like to have it go as fast as it can.

Lighter engines help of course, with new materials being just as strong without all the weight, but usually what it comes down to is displacement. This is a measure of how much air can be forced into a cylinder and ways to increase this involve the use of a turbocharger or supercharger.

The former boosts performance by pressurizing air to the cylinders by the use of a turbine which cleverly is powered by exhaust gases. This is simpler and more popular than a supercharger which is attached directly to the engine, more mechanically complicated, and often powered by a belt. Both of these increases the air flow to the cylinders and many cool this before it enters as well, so that its potential expansion rate is further increased.

Moving On

But whatever speed the automobile is traveling at, there now needs some fresh characters to be introduced upon the scene.

Next is the transmission, or gearing, and this quite literally, transmits the power onwards towards the wheels. In essence it allows for the wheels to turn at different speeds from the engine, which is of vital importance to actually getting anywhere (like uphill, just for starters).

Coming in two varieties, either automatic or manual, the energy is directed from the crankshaft to the clutch, through the transmission and on through the driveshaft and universal joints to the differential (which is important as it allows opposing wheels to turn at diverse speeds when cornering), then onto the axles which the wheels are mounted on.

High or Low Gear?

Automatic transmissions, which are more popular within North America than much of the rest of the world, have different ways of working. One way is called planetary gearing (or epicyclical gearing), and involves smaller toothed gear wheels (the planets) rotating around a larger toothed wheel (the sun), sometimes with other outer wheels which mesh with the planet gears. These planet gears are adaptable and can sometimes work on a holding arm which itself is movable. But whatever the configuration, they work through gear ratios (the relationship of the various sized gear wheels to one another) with one component either reducing or increasing the outgoing energy (to the driveshaft that turns the axles) that arrives from the crankshaft and flywheel in the engine.

The latest automatic torque-converter transmissions are getting more and more computerized, with hydraulic power from pressurized oil pumps, altering speeds of a device that connects with the driveshaft. This being better controlled to adapt faster to requirements than the older spring loaded system is for changing ratios by shifting the gear wheel patterns.

Controlling Power

So that’s basically it, apart from the brakes and steering!

The direction of the automobile is controlled by the steering wheel, which has a tube inside the steering column (on which the wheel sits). This goes down to where it meets a steering gear that guides the wheels and makes it possible to turn the car without the driver wrenching their arms, and hydraulic assisted or power steering makes thing easier still.

How Do I Stop?

An important question at any time was whether to make this so brakes come with discs or drums. Disc brakes have pads on a vise-like caliper which straddles and close on and grip a disc that is securely attached to the car wheels. While drum brakes involve curved shoes pressing hard against a metal drum that is similarly fixed to each wheel, and friction does the rest.

ABS (Antilock Braking System) is an electronic system that makes sudden braking safer by altering hydraulic pressure in brake lines that control such devices as above, to prevent wheels locking and the automobile spinning or skidding sideways.

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Association of International Automobile Manufacturers

Why AIAM?

Promoting Competition, Advancing Technology, Investing in America ...

The Association of International Automobile Manufacturers, Inc. (AIAM) represents international motor vehicle manufacturers, original equipment suppliers and other automotive-related trade associations. AIAM provides members with information, analysis and advocacy on a wide variety of legislative and regulatory issues impacting the auto sector.

The mission of AIAM is to protect and promote the unique interests of international automakers and their suppliers in the United States. AIAM is dedicated to the promotion of free trade and to policies that enhance motor vehicle safety and the protection of the environment.

Investing in America

Across America, international automobile manufacturers have helped revitalize local communities. The economic and social benefits of this investment ripple through the country by creating thousands of new jobs, expanding local tax bases and contributing directly to local communities through responsible corporate citizenship.

Advancing Technology

Always striving to improve vehicle performance, efficiency and safety, international automakers and their suppliers stand at the forefront of technological advances. These innovative technologies preserve our resources, reduce air pollution and save lives.

International automakers consistently rank among the leading producers of environment-friendly and fuel efficient vehicles. AIAM members were the first to offer vehicles meeting California's super-ultra-low-emission vehicle standards and the first to certify hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. In addition, AIAM member companies are consistently at the top of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) annual top 10 vehicles for best fuel economy.

The Voice of International Automobile Manufacturers

AIAM is the voice of international automobile manufacturers in Washington, D.C. and in state capitols around the country. Membership allows companies to interact on issues of mutual concern and positively impact policy and regulatory developments that affect the design, manufacture and sale of motor vehicles in the United States. With immediate access to pertinent information, archival databases and expert staff, members can expand their knowledge base, hone their competitive position and protect their ability to compete on equal terms in the largest motor vehicle market in the world.

Services AIAM provides its members include:

  • Proactive representation on automotive-related legislative and regulatory policy developments
  • Consistent support of free trade and open investment policies
  • Access to technical and policy experts who provide legislators, regulators and journalists information and perspective unavailable through any other source
  • Timely analysis of U.S. laws and regulations
  • Opportunity to interact and collaborate with other members on best practices and issues of common interest
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How has the Automobile Changed History?

Early Automobile Industry

Although the automobile was being made in Europe and America in the late 1800's, it wasn't until the start of the 20th century that they really came into their own.

In 1895 in the US there were 300 cars manufactured. Just ten years later there were 78,000, then 459,000 in 1910 and 1.7million by 1914. The popularity of the automobile didn't stop and has continued to grow ever since.

Today the automobile is an essential part of everyday life.

Ford Revolutionizes Manufacturing

In 1914 Henry Ford revolutionized the whole manufacturing process by creating the continuous, moving assembly line.

The Henry Ford assembly line method, meant that each worker had a standardized job in one place, instead of moving around performing different tasks. This increased the safety factor and led to more output per worker.

Ford reduced the working day from 9 hours to 8 hours, so that he could operate 3 shifts per day.

He increased wages to almost double that of other manufacturers and created a plan to profit share with his workers.

These innovations increased production dramatically and reduced costs, making automobiles more affordable to the general public.

It also made Ford something of a celebrity and other industries soon adopted his methods.

The assembly line was here to stay.

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Auto Insurance for Teens

Why it is important for a teenager to compare car insurance rates:

When it comes to teenagers and students, getting rates from a variety of carriers is important because it helps locate those who offer a cheaper rate to teens. In reality, some companies even target the teenage drivers because they are profitable in the young driver category. In the other hand, some coverage providers let you know that they find you too risky by quoting an outrageous premium.

OnlineAutoInsurance.com offers instant car insurance quotes from a group of companies who are quite competitive in the teen category. Give it a shot, it only takes a few minutes to compare side by side prices from popular insurers.
Parent and teenage driver.

For Parents:

Is it cheaper to add me to my parent's policy or get my own? The best way to answer that question is to get quotes from other companies to see the insurer who may offer cheaper auto insurance for the desired coverage. Simply enter zip code above to begin providing the basic information needed for a teenager's quotes from multiple companies.


Frequently asked questions by teen's parents:

Should I add my child to my policy or have them open a new one? - Parent and childDetermining whether you should add a child to your current auto insurance policy or have them open a policy independently depends on a few factors. First of all, it is a good idea to have your agent or carrier give you a quote for the addition of the child. Remember that if you have multiple vehicles on your policy, the new driver may cause an increase in premium for all vehicles on the policy.

Depending on the child's age, time licensed, driving record, marital status, occupation and commute, the premium may vary within different carriers and some will let you know that they prefer not to take on the risk by charging a high rate. With this in mind, it's easy to realize why comparing quotes is important in determining which insurer will be a better choice.

Teens with learner's permits - Youths with learner permits or a driver's permit can search for their own policy to be independent from their parent's policy before being licensed as long as they agree to obtain the permanent license within an agreed amount of time. Here are insurance tips for young singles provided by a trusted government source as insuring guidance with a bit of "101" for added knowledge.


Commonly Asked Questions About Auto Insurance

Q. Why is insurance so expensive for teenage drivers?

A. The cost of auto insurance varies from one group of drivers to another because some groups have worse driving records, higher accident rates and more costly accidents than others. The highest insurance rates are paid by any male driver under the age of 25. His rate then hinges on whether he’s married and whether he owns or is the main driver of the car being insured. With the increase in young female drivers in the last twenty years, however, the accident rates between the genders are evening out. Drivers age 15-20 accounted for 12.9 percent of all the drivers involved in fatal crashes and 16 percent of all the drivers involved in police-reported crashes in 2006.

Q. Can I be added to my parents’ auto insurance?

A. If you drive a family car, you can be added to your parents’ policy. However, the cost of the policy will increase. (Some companies insure young drivers only on a family policy.) If you have your own car, your parents’ company may sell you a separate policy, but at a different rate than your parents.

Q. Do I have to be a certain age to buy my own insurance?

A. No. However, you must have a valid driver’s license. Also, in many states, you must be 18 before you can own a car without an adult’s name on the auto registration.

Q. How often do I have to renew my insurance?

A. Auto insurance policies usually last six months. Some last one year. You will receive a notice when it’s time to renew your insurance.

Q. Will my rates go up or will I lose my insurance if I get into an accident or get a ticket?

A. If you are not at fault in an accident, your insurance should not be affected. If you are at fault, get a ticket for a serious violation (i.e. drunk driving), or are involved in an accident that racks up expensive property damage (i.e. crashing into a tree), your rates may increase at the time of renewing your policy because you will be categorized into another higher risk group of people who have recently been in an accident. You can no longer be placed into the accident-free group that you were in before the accident.

Q. If I loan a car to a friend who has an accident, is he or she covered by my insurance?

A. Under most circumstances, someone using your car with your permission is covered by your insurance. If the person borrows your car with your permission and is involved in an accident, your insurance will pay just as if you were the driver. However, in some states, some insurers may limit the coverage.

Q. Should I report all accidents to my insurance company?

A. Yes. You should report all accidents even if you do not end up filing a claim. If you don’t report these incidents, you run the risk of being sued by the other people involved and your insurance company will be at a disadvantage in defending you.

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Auto Insurance Index

Index of the top Automobile / Car Insurance websites on the web. In these sites you can find your best coverage and rates as well as getting some great advise from industry mentors.

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