Car & Automotive Terms Glossary

Definition: An electric current that periodically reverses direction, commonly used in residential and commercial power supplies.

 

 

Examples: Level 1 and Level 2 EV chargers supply AC power to the vehicle’s onboard charger.

Definition: A component of disc brake systems that houses the brake pads and pistons. When activated, the caliper squeezes the brake pads against the disc to slow down or stop the vehicle.

 

 

 

Examples: Motorcycles like the Yamaha R15 use dual-piston calipers for improved braking performance.

Definition: A shaft in the engine that controls the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves through cam lobes.

 

 

Examples: Overhead camshaft (OHC) engines, like those in the Honda CBR series, offer better performance at high RPMs.

Definition: A device that mixes air and fuel in the correct ratio for combustion in internal combustion engines.

 

 

 

Examples: Older motorcycles, such as the Royal Enfield Bullet, utilize carburetors for fuel delivery.

Definition: A system that transmits power from the engine to the rear wheel using a metal chain and sprockets.

 

 

 

Examples: Most sport and standard motorcycles, like the Suzuki GSX-R series, use chain drives for their efficiency and ease of maintenance.

Definition: A protective cover over the motorcycle’s chain to prevent debris from entering and to protect the rider from the moving chain.

 

 

Examples: Commuter bikes like the Hero Splendor come equipped with chain guards for safety.

Definition: A graph that represents the rate at which an electric vehicle’s battery charges over time, typically showing a decrease in charging speed as the battery approaches full capacity.

 

 

Examples: An EV may charge rapidly up to 80% capacity, after which the charging rate slows down to protect battery health.

Definition: The panel located in front of the rider or driver, housing various controls and instruments to monitor vehicle performance.

 

 

Examples: Digital dashboards in modern motorcycles display speed, fuel level, and navigation information.

Definition: Indicator lights on the dashboard that alert the rider or driver to various statuses or issues within the vehicle.

 

 

 

Examples: A check engine light or low battery indicator appearing on the dashboard.

Definition: An electric current that flows in one direction, commonly used in batteries and for rapid EV charging.

 

 

Examples: DC fast chargers supply direct current to quickly charge electric vehicle batteries.

Definition: A method of charging electric vehicles using direct current at high power levels, significantly reducing charging time.

 

 

Examples: Public charging stations offering 50 kW or higher power output for rapid EV charging.

Definition: The percentage of a battery’s capacity that has been used relative to its total capacity.

 

 

Examples: Using 70% of a battery before recharging equates to a 70% DoD.

Definition: A braking system that uses calipers to squeeze brake pads against a disc or rotor to slow down or stop the vehicle.

 

 

 

Examples: Front and rear disc brakes on a sport motorcycle for enhanced stopping power.

Definition: A braking system where brake shoes press against the inner surface of a rotating drum to create friction and slow the vehicle.

 

 

 

Examples: Rear drum brakes commonly found on commuter motorcycles

Definition: The capability of an electric vehicle to accept both AC and DC charging inputs.

 

 

Examples: An EV that can be charged at home using AC power or at public DC fast-charging stations.

Definition: A measure of how far a vehicle can travel per kilowatt-hour of electricity consumed.

 

 

Examples: An EV that travels 4 miles per kWh is more efficient than one that travels 3 miles per kWh.

Definition: A device that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to propel the vehicle.

 

 

Examples: Used in electric scooters like the Ather 450X

Definition: A system that uses an electric motor to start the internal combustion engine.

 

 

Examples: Push-button starters in modern motorcycles.

Definition: The power-generating component of a vehicle that converts fuel into mechanical energy to propel the vehicle.

 

 

Examples: Single-cylinder 150cc engine, V-twin 500cc engine.

Definition: The main structure of an engine that houses the cylinders and other components.

 

 

Examples: Cast iron or aluminum engine blocks in motorcycles.

Definition: A protective frame installed on the front of a motorcycle to shield the engine and other components in case of a fall.

 

 

Examples: Crash bars on adventure motorcycles.

 Definition: A system that directs combustion gases away from the engine and reduces noise.

 

 

Examples: Dual exhaust in Royal Enfield Interceptor 650.

Definition: An electric vehicle that includes a small gasoline engine used to generate electricity to extend the driving range when the battery is depleted.

 

 

Examples: BMW i3 REx.

Definition: A shell placed over the frame to reduce air drag and protect the rider.

 

 

Examples: Full fairing in sport bikes.

Definition: Charging at higher power levels (typically 7–22 kW), reducing charging time compared to slow charging.

 

 

Examples: Level 2 charging using a 240V outlet, common in homes and public stations

Definition: The reduction in charging speed as the battery nears full capacity, implemented to protect battery health.

 

 

Examples: A charger reducing power output from 150 kW to 50 kW as the battery reaches 80% charge.

Definition: Supports for the rider’s and passenger’s feet.

 

 

Examples: Retractable foot pegs.

Definition: A system that injects fuel directly into the combustion chamber.

 

 

Examples: Common in modern motorcycles.

 Definition: A container that holds the fuel needed for the engine to operate.

 

 

Examples: 13-liter fuel tank in Bajaj Pulsar 150

Definition: A toothed wheel that works with others to alter the torque and speed transmitted from the engine to the wheels.

 

 

Examples: First gear for starting, fifth gear for cruising.

Definition: A lever used to change gears in a manual transmission.

 

 

Examples: Foot-operated gear shifter.

Definition: A mechanical system of gears that transmits power from the engine to the drive mechanism.

 

 

Examples: 5-speed gearbox in a commuter motorcycle.

Definition: A small bell attached to a motorcycle to ward off evil spirits or bad luck, normally given as a gift to a fellow rider.

 

 

Examples: A gremlin bell hanging from the frame of a touring motorcycle.

Definition: The steering mechanism of a two-wheeler, allowing the rider to control direction.

 

 

Examples: Clip-on handlebars, straight handlebars.

Definition: A front-mounted light that illuminates the road ahead during low visibility conditions.

 

 

Examples: LED headlights, halogen headlights.

Definition: A protective headgear worn by riders to safeguard against head injuries during accidents.

 

 

 Examples: Full-face helmets, open-face helmets, modular helmets.

Definition: A vehicle that combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor, where the battery is charged through regenerative braking and the engine, not by plugging in.

 

 

Examples: Toyota Prius, Honda Insight.

Definition: A switch that activates the vehicle’s main electrical systems and starts the engine.

 

 

Examples: Key-operated ignition switches in motorcycles.

Definition: A group of instruments and gauges displaying vital information to the rider.

 

 

Examples: Includes speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge.

Definition: A type of engine where fuel combustion occurs within a chamber to produce mechanical energy, commonly used in gasoline or diesel vehicles.

 

 

Examples: Engines in cars like Ford Mustang, Honda Accord.

Definition: A hand-operated gear shift lever mounted directly on the transmission, typically found on custom or vintage motorcycles. It requires the rider to remove a hand from the handlebars to change gears.

 

 

Examples: Commonly seen on custom Harley-Davidson choppers and bobbers.

Definition: A metal rod attached to a motorcycle or bicycle that swings down to support the vehicle when parked, preventing it from tipping over.

 

 

Examples: Side stands and center stands are two common types of kickstands.

Definition: A unit of power equal to 1,000 watts, representing the rate at which energy is used or produced.

 

 

 

Examples: An electric motorcycle motor rated at 10 kW produces 10,000 watts of power.

Definition: A unit of energy representing one kilowatt of power used for one hour. It measures energy consumption over time.

 

 

Examples: Charging an electric vehicle with a 60 kWh battery from empty to full consumes 60 kilowatt-hours of electricity.

Definition: Light Emitting Diodes used in vehicle lighting systems, known for their energy efficiency, brightness, and long lifespan.

 

 

Examples: LED headlights, taillights, and turn signals are common in modern motorcycles for improved visibility.

Definition: A component of the exhaust system designed to reduce the noise produced by the engine’s exhaust gases.

 

 

Examples: Aftermarket mufflers can alter the sound and performance of a motorcycle’s exhaust system.

Definition: An instrument that measures the total distance traveled by a vehicle over its lifetime.

 

 

 

Examples: Digital odometers display mileage electronically, while mechanical ones use rotating gears.

Definition: A type of luggage container mounted on either side of the rear wheel of a motorcycle, used for carrying gear or personal items.

 

 

Examples: Hard-shell panniers on touring motorcycles; soft panniers on adventure bikes.

Definition: An engine configuration with two cylinders aligned side by side in a single row, sharing a common crankshaft.

 

 

Examples: Kawasaki Ninja 650, Yamaha MT-07.

Definition: A small seat located behind the main rider’s seat on a motorcycle, designed for a passenger.

 

 

Examples: Custom choppers often feature a minimalistic P-Pad for the passenger.

Definition: A cylindrical component that moves up and down within the engine’s cylinder, converting the energy from combustion into mechanical motion.

 

 

Examples: High-performance motorcycles may use forged pistons for increased strength and durability.

Definition: A vehicle that combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor and a rechargeable battery, which can be charged via an external power source.

 

 

Examples: Toyota Prius Prime, Ford Escape PHEV.

Definition: The process of preparing an electric vehicle’s cabin temperature and battery state before driving, often while still connected to a charger, to optimize comfort and efficiency.

 

 

 

Examples: Using a mobile app to warm up the EV’s interior on a cold day before departure.

 Definition: An electronic device that allows motorcycle riders to shift gears without using the clutch or reducing throttle, enabling faster gear changes.

 

 

Examples: Found on performance motorcycles like the BMW S1000RR.

Definition: A heat exchanger used to cool the engine coolant in liquid-cooled motorcycles, maintaining optimal engine temperature.

 

 

 

Examples: Sportbikes like the Yamaha R1 use radiators for engine cooling.

Definition: The maximum distance a vehicle can travel on a full tank of fuel or a fully charged battery.

 

 

Examples: A Tesla Model 3 Long Range has an estimated range of over 350 miles per charge.

Definition: The fear or concern that an electric vehicle will run out of battery charge before reaching a charging station or destination.

 

 

 

Examples: Early EV adopters often experienced range anxiety due to limited charging infrastructure.

Definition: An electric vehicle equipped with a small internal combustion engine that acts as a generator to recharge the battery, extending the vehicle’s range.

 

Examples: BMW i3 with Range Extender.

Definition: The system of springs, shock absorbers, and linkages that connects the rear wheel to the motorcycle frame, absorbing shocks from the road.

 

 

 

Examples: Mono-shock rear suspension on Yamaha MT-09.

Definition: A braking system in electric vehicles that recovers kinetic energy during braking and converts it into electrical energy to recharge the battery.

 

 

 

Examples: Nissan Leaf uses regenerative braking to improve efficiency.

Definition: The outer edge of a wheel that holds the tire in place.

 

 

 

Examples: Alloy rims on sport motorcycles; spoke rims on off-road bikes.

Definition: A measure of how many times the engine’s crankshaft completes a full rotation each minute, indicating engine speed.

 

 

 

Examples: An engine idling at 1,000 RPM; redline at 12,000 RPM.

Definition: The part of the motorcycle designed for the rider (and sometimes a passenger) to sit on.

 

 

 

Examples: Split seats on sportbikes; single-piece seats on cruisers.

Definition: A component of the suspension system that dampens the impact from road irregularities, providing a smoother ride.

 

Examples: Adjustable rear shock absorbers on touring motorcycles.

Definition: A support that allows the motorcycle to lean to one side and remain upright when parked.

 

 

 

Examples: Most motorcycles come equipped with a side stand for quick parking.

Definition: An AC power system with a single alternating voltage, commonly used in residential settings.

 

 

Examples: Typical household outlets providing 120V or 240V single-phase power for Level 1 or Level 2 charging.

Definition: A device that ignites the air-fuel mixture in the engine’s combustion chamber by producing a spark.

 

 

 

Examples: NGK spark plugs used in various motorcycle engines.

Definition: An instrument that displays the current speed of the vehicle.

 

 

 

Examples: Analog speedometer on classic motorcycles; digital speedometer on modern bikes.

Definition: An electric motor that initiates the engine’s operation by turning the crankshaft until the engine starts.

 

 

 

Examples: Electric starter motors on most modern motorcycles.

Definition: The current level of charge in a battery, expressed as a percentage of its total capacity.

 

 

 

Examples: A vehicle with an 80% SoC on a 100 kWh battery has 80 kWh available.

Definition: A system of springs and dampers that absorb shocks from the road, providing a smoother ride.

 

 

 

Examples: Telescopic front forks and mono-shock rear suspension.

 Definition: An instrument measuring the engine’s RPM (Revolutions Per Minute).

 

 

Examples: Analog or digital tachometers on sport motorcycles.

Definition: A rear-mounted light that signals the vehicle’s presence to others on the road.

 

 

 

Examples: LED taillights on modern motorcycles.

Definition: An AC power system with three alternating voltages, used in commercial and industrial settings for higher power delivery.

 

 

 

Examples: Public charging stations utilizing three-phase power to provide faster Level 2 or DC fast charging.

Definition: The patterned surface of a tire that provides grip.

 

 

Examples: Slick tread for racing; knobby tread for off-road.

Definition: Charging the battery partially to maintain a higher state of charge, rather than waiting for it to deplete significantly.

 

 

Examples: Plugging in the EV during short stops to add 20–30 miles of range.

Definition: A system that transmits power from the engine to the wheels, allowing the rider to control speed and torque.

 

 

 

Examples: Manual 5-speed gearbox; automatic CVT.

Definition: Very slow charging, often at power levels below 3 kW, typically used for maintaining battery charge over extended periods.

 

 

 

Examples: Charging an EV overnight using a standard 120V household outlet.

Definition: A vehicle that emits significantly lower levels of harmful emissions compared to conventional vehicles.

 

 

 

Examples: Most EVs and hybrids qualify; e.g., Honda Clarity, Toyota Prius.

Definition: Very high-power DC charging (typically above 100 kW), offering extremely fast charging times.

 

 

 

Examples: Tesla Superchargers and other high-capacity chargers delivering up to 350 kW, adding substantial range in 15–20 minutes.

Definition: An engine configuration with two cylinders arranged in a V shape, commonly found in cruiser motorcycles.

 

 

 

Examples: Harley-Davidson’s Milwaukee-Eight V-Twin engine.

Definition: Components that open and close to allow air-fuel mixture in and exhaust gases out of the cylinder.

 

 

Examples: Intake and exhaust valves.

Definition: A protective cover that sits atop the engine’s cylinder head, sealing the valve train components and preventing oil leaks.

 

 

Examples: Aluminum valve covers on performance engines.

Definition: The gradual loss of battery charge while the vehicle is parked and not in use.

 

 

 

Examples: An EV might lose 1–2% charge per day due to background system activity.

Definition: A technology in internal combustion engines that adjusts the timing of valve opening and closing to improve performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions.

 

 

 

Examples: Honda’s VTEC system, Toyota’s VVT-i.

Definition: A system where EVs can return stored energy to the electrical grid, aiding in grid stability and energy management.

 

 

 

Examples: Fleet vehicles discharging power to the grid during high-demand periods and recharging during low-demand periods.

• Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) 
• Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) 
• Hybrid (HEV) 
• Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) 
• Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) 
• Range-Extended Electric Vehicle (REx) 
• Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV)
  
• Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV)

Definition: A transparent shield attached to a helmet to protect the rider’s eyes and face from wind, debris, and weather.

 

 

Examples: Tinted visors for daytime riding; clear visors for night.

Definition: A unit of measurement for the force of energy required to move one ampere between two points of a conducting wire.

 

 

 

Examples: Higher voltage charging stations push more electrical current through a circuit, which helps boost charging speed.

Definition: A device that changes the voltage level of electrical power, often used in EVs to step down high-voltage battery power for use by lower-voltage systems.

 

 

 

Examples: Converting 400V battery output to 12V for accessories.

Definition: A unit of power that measures the rate of energy transfer or conversion. One watt equals one joule per second.

 

 

 

Examples: A 100W light bulb consumes 100 watts of power when in use.

Definition: The weight of a motorcycle including all fluids such as fuel, oil, coolant, and brake fluid—ready to ride.

 

 

 

Examples: A Yamaha MT-07 has a wet weight of about 403 lbs (183 kg).

Definition: The distance between the front and rear wheels of a vehicle, which influences stability, handling, and ride comfort.

 

 

Examples: A longer wheelbase on touring motorcycles like the Honda Goldwing contributes to smoother rides.

Definition: A maneuver where the front wheel is lifted off the ground by accelerating hard or pulling the handlebars upward.

 

 

Examples: Performed in motorsports or stunt riding; not advisable on public roads.

Definition: A transparent screen at the front of a motorcycle designed to deflect wind away from the rider.

 

 

 

Examples: Touring bikes often have tall windscreens for wind protection at high speeds.

Definition: A bundled set of wires and connectors that transmit electrical power and signals throughout the vehicle.

 

 

Examples: The wiring harness connects the battery to headlights, horn, ignition system, etc.

Definition: A type of high-intensity discharge (HID) headlight that produces bright, white-blue light, enhancing nighttime visibility.

 

 

 

Examples: Often used in high-end motorcycles and cars; e.g., some BMW motorcycles.

Definition: Also known as a triple clamp, it connects the motorcycle’s front forks to the frame and allows steering input.

 

 

 

Examples: The top yoke also holds the handlebars on most motorcycles.

Definition: A vehicle that does not emit any harmful pollutants or greenhouse gases from the onboard source of power.

 

 

Examples: Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) like the Tesla Model 3 or the Zero SR/F motorcycle.