Automobiles are wheeled motor vehicles that are used for transportation. Most definitions of automobiles state that they have four wheels, can seat one to eight people, and run on roads. In most cases, automobiles are primarily used for transporting people. However, there are many different types of automobiles.
Developed by Daimler and Maybach
In 1893, Daimler and Maybach broke away from the Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft mbH to pursue their own research and development. The duo entered road races and endurance trials to prove the utility of the automobile. Ultimately, the two partners were able to come to an agreement. The Daimler-Maybach company merged in 1926 and was incorporated as Daimler-Benz AG.
Daimler and Maybach first tested their engine in a horse-drawn carriage and boat in 1886. They eventually developed a motor carriage with a four-speed gearbox. At the 1889 Paris World Exhibition, Maybach and Daimler demonstrate their motor vehicle’s two-cylinder V-engine. In the ensuing years, Daimler and Maybach would use this engine in all of their vehicles.
The two engineers also played a vital role in the development of the petrol engine. Their designs eventually became the basis for the modern petrol engine, which was installed on the first motorcycle. Later, Daimler and Maybach would use their engines in boats and stagecoaches.
Developed by General Motors
Developing in-vehicle software systems that are both reliable and secure is an ongoing challenge. Such systems require rigorous certifications and cybersecurity measures, which can add time to development and slow down the pace of innovation. Also, vehicle software updates can be complicated because each one requires re-certification. GM and Red Hat are working to speed up the process and make updates more frequent.
These developments could help reduce the number of vehicle accidents. GM has been working to integrate this technology into new cars and even retrofitting older vehicles. The average age of a vehicle in the U.S. is 10.2 years. In the meantime, researchers are focusing on improving the communication systems of older vehicles.
In developing this software, GM’s Operations Research team recognized the need for new analytic tools that could support its Product Development activity. These tools can help engineers make better decisions. They also help to apply market research to vehicle attributes and optimize inbound logistics.
Developed by Ford
Ford has been applying Agile methodologies across its enterprise to develop new products. These innovative practices started with Project Apollo, an initiative by executive chairman Bill Ford to create personal protective equipment for the COVID-19 pandemic. The automaker began manufacturing the protective gear in a matter of weeks. The project team was encouraged to make suggestions and lean into them.
Ford’s Mobility Studio will bring together innovative companies and experts to develop new transportation technologies. It will be located in Michigan Central, its new innovation district, in Detroit’s Corktown neighborhood. The studio will provide incubator, testing and commercialization resources for member companies, enabling them to scale up their businesses and develop new innovations.
Another innovative program is the Ford Crew Chief powered by Telogis, which provides police officers with visibility into the performance of their vehicles, including the pursuit mode. The software also provides information on antilock braking system events, engine torque, and stability and traction control. It also provides individualized scorecards based on driving behaviors. This technology is just one of many innovations from Ford to help police officers remain safe on the road.