AUTOMOBILE is one of the most revolutionary inventions of the recent history, as its influence to the modern society is concerned. Motor Vehicle, the principal mode of transport, has immensely contributed to the development and well being of the human society, for many generations.
Automobiles are classified based on different criteria, i.e.,
(1) The fuel used : (a) Diesel (b) Petrol (c) LP Gas etc.
(2) The drive mechanism therein : (a) Petrol or diesel engine (b) Hybrid engine (combination of petrol or diesel engine with electric motor) (c) Electric motor.
(3) The purpose for which the vehicle is used : (a) Lorry
(b) Bus (c) Car (d) Van (e) SUV etc.
The technology associated with the automobile is evolving as the changing world proceeds ahead. During last few decades, the advancement of base technologies, such as digital electronics and information technology, has made it possible to produce a new generation of sophisticated and dependable automobiles. Unlike conventional mechanical automobiles, modern motor vehicles are completed with many hi-tech applications such as ECU, ABS, GPS..... and so forth which assist to ensure safe and better passenger transport.
Globally, millions of motor vehicles are produced
in different makes, types and models with novel concepts applying state of the
art technology. As far as the current automobile utilization is considered, the
number is on the increase, exceeding sustainable limits. Heavy
traffic congestions visible almost in every part of the world, is a witness to this painstaking situation. Despite of such
conditions, in parallel to the growing population and expanding
industrialization, further increase in automobile production is looming in the future.
Many issues have been raised with the proliferation of motor vehicles, all over the world. Some of them being,
(1) Escalating number of road accidents due to human errors and mechanical defects.
(2) Waste of fuel,
lubricant, coolant, motor spare parts, labor and time due to incorrect
maintenance practices and excessive traffic conditions.
(3) Environmental pollution caused by,
(a) Toxic gases such as CO, CO2, NOx and SO2.
(b) Hydro carbon and carbon soot.
(c) Unsafe disposal of
batteries containing heavy metals such as Ni, Cd, Pb etc.
In order to keep the motor
vehicle in good working order and obtain the best performance, it needs to be
maintained as recommended by the manufacturer. Generally, maintenance can be
divided into two main categories i.e.,
(1) Scheduled maintenance.
(2) Unscheduled maintenance.
(1) Scheduled Maintenance :
Scheduled maintenance is
performed at regular time (or distance) intervals, with two different processes.
(a) Inspection, adjustments
and replacement of spare parts (if necessary).
(b) Service : Cleaning, lubrication and topping up of fluids.
(2) Unscheduled Maintenance :
During the running period, appropriate repairs are needed to be done, when unexpected faults are diagnosed.
Correct and timely
maintenance provides many benefits to the society viz.,
(1) Minimization of road accidents and way side break-downs.
(2) Prevention of waste of fuel, lubricant, coolant, motor spare parts, labor and time.
(3) Minimization of air pollution caused by toxic gases such as CO, CO2, NOx and SO2.
(4) Ensures optimum engine performance, fuel efficiency, travel speed, passenger comfort, safety and extended life time for vehicle and spare parts.
The blog is intended to help raise public awareness and improve understanding in automobile maintenance aspect, in order to follow correct maintenance guidelines and procedures.
As the present global transport scenario is concerned, fossil fuel crisis and environmental pollution issues attributed to fuel driven vehicles has prompted a new trend of manufacturing Electric Vehicles. Given that the current conditions continue, the most part of the future transportation will be taken over by Electric Vehicles driven on renewable energy sources. This will be a boon to minimize current Environmental Pollution level at great proportions.
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