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From Horsepower to Battery Power: The Evolution of Automotive Propulsion Systems

The Early Days of Automotive Propulsion

Before the advent of self-propelled vehicles, live draft power was used - horses and mules. Therefore, with new steam-powered vehicles in the 19th century, people measured their power in horsepower. However, Karl Benz's invention of the gasoline internal combustion engine in 1879 truly opened the door to the modern automobile industry. This engine provided incredible speed, efficiency, and range in a relatively compact size.

We are witnessing a revolutionary transition from traditional internal combustion engines to electric vehicles (EV) technology. This is a turning point in the history of the automotive industry, as many leading automotive brands and startup companies are introducing more electric vehicles to the market.

This transition is revolutionising transportation and has significant implications for business, information technology, and outsourcing, shaping new industries worldwide.

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Rise of the Internal Combustion Engine

Gasoline and diesel engines became the dominant power in automobiles throughout much of the 20th century.

The prosperity of the automobile industry stimulated economic growth and technological innovation. Many scientists and designers worked on such technological breakthroughs as:

  • engine fuel injection;
  • turbocharging;
  • catalytic converters, etc.

These automotive innovations have improved engine performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control while increasing the influence of automotive production on the economic and political life of entire nations.

From Horsepower to Battery Power: The Evolution of Automotive Propulsion Systems

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From Horsepower to Battery Power: The Evolution of Automotive Propulsion Systems

We are witnessing a revolutionary transition from traditional internal combustion engines to electric vehicles (EV) technology. This is a turning point in the history of the automotive industry, as many leading automotive brands and startup companies are introducing more electric vehicles to the market.

This transition is revolutionising transportation and has significant implications for business, information technology, and outsourcing, shaping new industries worldwide.

The Early Days of Automotive Propulsion

Before the advent of self-propelled vehicles, live draft power was used - horses and mules. Therefore, with new steam-powered vehicles in the 19th century, people measured their power in horsepower. However, Karl Benz's invention of the gasoline internal combustion engine in 1879 truly opened the door to the modern automobile industry. This engine provided incredible speed, efficiency, and range in a relatively compact size.

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Rise of the Internal Combustion Engine

Gasoline and diesel engines became the dominant power in automobiles throughout much of the 20th century.

The prosperity of the automobile industry stimulated economic growth and technological innovation. Many scientists and designers worked on such technological breakthroughs as:

  • engine fuel injection;
  • turbocharging;
  • catalytic converters, etc.

These automotive innovations have improved engine performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control while increasing the influence of automotive production on the economic and political life of entire nations.

Introduction of Hybrid Technologies

However, the environmental impact of automobiles was generally negative, which is why hybrid car technologies emerged. They became a transitional solution, combining internal combustion engines with electric motors.

Hybrid vehicles have been able to offer higher fuel efficiency and reduce carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere.

In this process, Information technology played a significant role since, with their help, it was possible to:

  • optimise engine performance;
  • control power distribution;
  • integrate regenerative braking systems, etc.

The automotive industry has reached a new level of development, combining not only pure mechanics, as it was before, but also advanced technologies.

Shift to Fully Electric Vehicles (EVs)

After the introduction of hybrid vehicles, the industry has adopted all-electric vehicles (EVs). This was possible because  of factors such as sufficient technological experience, advanced industrial achievements, and a request from society for alternative fuel vehicles.

Electric cars have several undeniable advantages:

  • zero level of environmental pollution,
  • reduce dependence on oil;
  • reduced noise pollution;
  • lower operating costs compared to combustion-engine vehicles;
  • savings on charging the vehicle (it is usually cheaper than buying gasoline);
  • carbon emissions reduction, as EVs can be charged from renewable energy sources;
  • significantly reduce air pollution.

IT and outsourcing have significantly developed electric vehicle technology, from battery power management systems and charging infrastructure to software optimization and vehicle connectivity.

Collaboration with IT partners has allowed automotive companies to gain access to professionals with unique expertise, accelerate innovation, and overcome challenges associated with scaling production.

Future Trends in Automotive Propulsion

Constant technological progress and dynamic market developments promise exciting prospects for electric vehicle adoption.

Innovations such as solid-state batteries, wireless charging, and autonomous driving technologies have enormous potential and could revolutionise the industry.

IT will play an essential role in the automotive industry as it drives innovation, facilitates cross-sector collaboration, and helps adapt to regulatory requirements.

It enables the integration of advanced connectivity features such as GPS navigation, real-time traffic updates, remote diagnostics, and over-the-air software updates, enhancing driver convenience, safety, and comfort.

Now, the automotive industry is entering a new stage of development, and shortly, we will witness a new revolution akin to the advent of internal combustion engines.

Collaboration between IT and the automotive industry will allow for sustainable mobility and industry development. IT is critical in driving innovation, efficiency, and competitiveness in green automotive technology . It enables companies to develop advanced vehicles, optimise production processes, improve customer experiences, and adapt to changing market demands.

From Horsepower to Battery Power: The Evolution of Automotive Propulsion Systems

We are witnessing a revolutionary transition from traditional internal combustion engines to electric vehicles (EV) technology. This is a turning point in the history of the automotive industry, as many leading automotive brands and startup companies are introducing more electric vehicles to the market.

This transition is revolutionising transportation and has significant implications for business, information technology, and outsourcing, shaping new industries worldwide.