Automotive systems are complex systems that involve multiple components. Automotive systems are comprised of mechanical, electronic, and chemical elements. It can be categorized into five main areas: Automotive Engineering, Automotive Systems, Automotive Mechanics, and Automotive Service Training. The Automotive Systems Technology program is designed to support the college-wide educational objectives pertinent to curriculum development by providing a high-quality NATEF/ ACE certified training and support program to current and future automotive technicians, local automotive dealers, and industry within Henderson and surrounding areas. The Automotive Engineering Automotive Mechanics program ensures Automotive Technology graduates a solid understanding of Automotive Engineering, with a focus on test preparation, certification requirements, and workplace design.

Automotive systems

Automotive systems are comprised of Automotive Engineering, Automotive Mechanics, Automotive Service Training, and Automotive Service Planning. Automotive Engineering deals with principles, design parameters, fuel systems, braking systems, emission requirements, and particulate emission limits. Automotive mechanics deal with component installation, inspection, and repair of Automotive Engineering systems. Automotive Service Training creates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively serve customer needs and enhance Automotive Engineering knowledge. Automotive Service Training classes include Certified Automotive Technicians (CAT) Certification, Automotive Service Technician (AST) Certification, Automotive Technologist (ATS) Certification, and Certified Automotive Specialist (CATS) Certification.

Automotive Engine Systems is comprised of Engine Control Systems, Combination Engine/brake System, Power Train Components, Power Train Shifting, Automotive Mechanics , Electronic Engine Computer (EEC), and Electronic Brake System (EBS). Automotive Engine Service includes emissions, air control, fuel system, transmission, starter relighting, battery, exhaust system, and automatic transmission. Automotive Engine Services can also include emission tests, spark plugs, re-fuelling, fuel delivery, combustion system, battery charging and replacement, oil pressure gauge, oil level gauge, temperature gauge, ignition system, exhaust system clean up, tire pressure, and wheel rotation. Automotive Service Training classes provide knowledge in the diagnosis, maintenance, and fuel delivery.

Automotive Seat Design is focused on providing maximum utility, safety, value, and comfort for an Automotive based vehicle. Automotive Seat Design encompasses a variety of topics such as seat style, seat design, vehicle matching and coordination, harness technology, and accessories. Automotive Systems is comprised of Automotive Engineering, Diagnostic and Maintenance Control, Safety, and Build Quality. Automotive Engineering deals with principles, design specifications, fabrication, and materials used. Automotive Engineering methods include casting, sheet metalworking, foam cutting, and forging.

Automotive Process Design (APS) deals with production planning, material planning, production control and other processes involved. Automotive systems and Automotive process engineering (APS) team members must work together to provide the best product, service, and result. Automotive process engineering (APS) includes the following areas; seat design, manufacturing process, control, parts, and safety. Automotive service management helps to improve the reliability and operational efficiency of automotive systems. Automotive Service Planning is the process by which customers acquire and manage automotive services.

Automotive Engine Repair Techniques is necessary to maintain the high combustion temperatures of an internal combustion engine. Automotive engine repair techniques are grouped into two categories: wet and dry. Wet automotive engine repair techniques focus on water evaporation, radiator leak detection and radiator cap removal. Dry automotive engine repair techniques involve radiator repair, hydraulic lift and tilt, spark plug renewal, water pump cleaning and combustion chamber inspection.

An external combustion engine (ECE) runs on four principle elements namely, an inlet, combustion chambers, combustion chamber liners, and piston bearings. The engine piston moves up and down in the cylinder chambers where air and fuel are heated. When the air and fuel mixture reaches a critical point, they combine to form a hot, dense, expanding substance known as combustion gases. When the piston is in motion, an electrical motor creates a counter-clockwise current that controls the movement of the pistons and prevents damage to the engine.

Automotive systems use four different types of mechanical energy for propulsion. One such source of mechanical energy is the compression of air and fuel, which is called induction. The second source of power lies in the spinning of an external combustion engine (ACO). The third energy source is referred to as the rotor torque and power, which are derived from the rotor’s turning radius and its center-line position with respect to the crankshaft. The fourth source of mechanical energy is the flow of air and fuel through an air inlet.