Automotive Engineering Technology: Practical Applications
Unit Outlines

Automotive Engineering Technology: Practical Applications

AI Generated Intermediate 60 hours 9 topics

Learning Objectives

5 objectives
  • Understand the foundational principles and history of automotive engineering technology.
  • Analyze engine performance and vehicle dynamics to optimize vehicle operation and handling.
  • Explain automotive electrical and fuel systems, including emissions control technologies.
  • Apply diagnostic and maintenance techniques to ensure vehicle reliability and safety.
  • Explore emerging automotive technologies and their impact on the future of the industry.

Content Outline

Preview

Unit 3578: Automotive Engineering Technology

1. Introduction to Automotive Engineering Technology

  • Definition and scope of automotive engineering technology
  • Historical development and milestones in automotive engineering
  • Current advancements and trends
  • Roles and responsibilities of automotive engineers in industry

2. Engine Performance and Analysis

  • Fundamentals of internal combustion engines
    • Engine types and configurations
    • Thermodynamics of engine cycles
  • Performance parameters: power, torque, efficiency
  • Diagnostic tools and techniques
    • Dynamometers
    • Engine control unit (ECU) data analysis
  • Optimization strategies for engine efficiency and power output

3. Vehicle Dynamics and Handling

  • Overview of vehicle dynamics
  • Suspension systems
    • Types of suspensions
    • Suspension geometry
  • Steering mechanisms
    • Types of steering systems
    • Steering dynamics
  • Tire technology
    • Tire construction
    • Impact of tire characteristics on handling
  • Factors influencing vehicle stability and control

4. Automotive Electrical Systems

  • Fundamentals of automotive electrical circuits
  • Wiring diagrams and interpretation
  • Batteries and charging systems
    • Types of batteries
    • Alternators and regulators
  • Electronic Control Units (ECUs)
    • Functions and integration
    • Sensors and actuators

5. Fuel Systems and Emissions Control

  • Fuel delivery system designs
    • Carburetors vs. fuel injection
    • Fuel pumps and filters
  • Emission control devices
    • Catalytic converters
    • Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR)
    • On-board diagnostics (OBD)
  • Regulatory environment and impact on automotive design

6. Automotive Materials and Manufacturing

  • Materials used in automotive construction
    • Metals (steel, aluminum)
    • Polymers and composites
  • Manufacturing processes
    • Casting, forging, stamping
    • Assembly line principles
  • Quality control and testing
  • Innovations in materials science for automotive applications

7. Vehicle Diagnostics and Maintenance

  • Common vehicle issues and troubleshooting approaches
  • Routine maintenance tasks
    • Oil changes, brake inspections, tire maintenance
  • Diagnostic tools
    • OBD-II scanners
    • Multimeters
  • Preventative maintenance strategies

8. Automotive Safety and Crash Testing

  • Principles of automotive safety design
  • Crash testing procedures and standards
  • Safety features
    • Airbags
    • Seat belts
    • Electronic stability control
  • Impact of safety design on occupant protection

9. Emerging Technologies in Automotive Engineering

  • Electric vehicles (EVs)
    • Battery technologies
    • Charging infrastructure
  • Autonomous driving systems
    • Sensors and AI integration
  • Connected vehicles and telematics
  • Future trends and industry implications
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Quick Information

Unit Automotive Engineering Technology: Practical Applications
Difficulty Intermediate
Duration60 hours
Topics9
CreatedJul 20, 2026
GeneratedJul 20, 2026 11:46

Prerequisites

  • Basic understanding of physics and mechanics
  • Fundamental electrical knowledge
  • Introductory knowledge of automotive systems (recommended)

Recommended Resources

  • Heisler, H. (2002). Advanced Vehicle Technology. Butterworth-Heinemann.
  • Bosch, R. (2011). Automotive Handbook (9th Edition). Robert Bosch GmbH.
  • Gillespie, T. D. (1992). Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics. SAE International.
  • Official SAE International journals and technical papers.
  • Automotive diagnostic tools manuals (e.g., OBD-II scanners).
  • Online resources: Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) website, automotive engineering courses on platforms like Coursera or edX.

Unit Topics

9
Introduction to Automotive Engineering Technology
An overview of the field of automotive engineering technology, including its history, current advanc...
Engine Performance and Analysis
Studying the principles behind engine operation, performance analysis techniques, and diagnostic too...
Vehicle Dynamics and Handling
Exploring the factors influencing vehicle dynamics, such as suspension systems, steering mechanisms,...
Automotive Electrical Systems
Covering the fundamentals of automotive electrical systems, including wiring diagrams, batteries, al...
Fuel Systems and Emissions Control
Examining the design and operation of fuel delivery systems, emission control devices, and the impac...
Automotive Materials and Manufacturing
Investigating the materials used in automotive construction, manufacturing processes, quality contro...
Vehicle Diagnostics and Maintenance
Learning how to diagnose and troubleshoot common vehicle issues, perform routine maintenance tasks,...
Automotive Safety and Crash Testing
Understanding the principles of automotive safety design, crash testing procedures, and the role of...
Emerging Technologies in Automotive Engineering
Exploring the latest trends and innovations in automotive engineering, such as electric vehicles, au...