Applications of principles of Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Technology applied to the automobile. Topics included are: Occupant Protections, Vehicle Control, Physical Strength and Durability of Drivers, Power Production, Global Warming, Power Transmission, Energy Storage and Retrieval, Air Pollution, Use and Re-use of Natural Resources, Choices dealing with Vehicle Selection, Purchase Options, Insurance, Productivity, Maintenance, Societal Consequences and a history of the industry's record of successes and failures.

Credits: 3 hours

Lecture Hours - Laboratory Hours: (3 to 0)

By the end of the semester the student should be able to:

1. Evaluate the past, current and projected use patterns of the automobile use in the U.S. and the effect these patterns on resource use, GDP, cost and environmental impact.
2. Evaluate vehicular use and life style changes that can be made to reduce the negative impact of the automobile while allowing positive aspects to occur.
3. Evaluate source, processes and politics involved with producing fuels and the technology of fuel economy.
4. Evaluate current and future technology of alternative fuels.
5. Evaluate current and future power plant and drive line technology.
6. Evaluate current and future vehicle body and seating technology as a means of reducing traffic and space requirements to reduce gridlock.
7. Apply science to energy use reduction, improved vehicle safety and reduced environmental impact.
8. Evaluate the effects of manufacturers; government and cost intervention in design.
9. Consider the effects of outsourcing on a global economy

Based on course objectives above:

• The student will demonstrate on a test the command and understanding of the subjects.
• The student will demonstrate communications skills and an understanding of the subject listed by writing of a term paper.
• The student will demonstrate communication skills and an in-depth understanding of any one of the objectives by writing a term paper on one of the subjects listed using reference/s listed in the course syllabus or other applicable library references.

Alternative Cars in the 21 s t Century, a new transportation paradigm, 2nd Edition, by Robert Q. Riley, Society of Automotive Engineers, 2003, ISBN 0-7680-0874-3

James VanDePolder, M.S.
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering
Western Michigan University
F-230 Parkview Campus
Kalamazoo, Michigan 49008-5336
Phone: (269) 276-3378
Email: james.vandepolder@wmich.edu