Technological Innovations

Pyreolophore the engine is a prototype developed by the Niépce brothers in 1807, which will result in gradual improvement of some internal combustion engines including developed by Rudolf Diesel, the diesel engine. Pyreolophore the air motor is dilated by heat and is similar to steam again. However, it does not only use coal as the heat source. At first, the Niépce brothers opt for a powder consisting of spores of a plant, lycopode, then in a second step, a mixture of coal and resin added to the pétrole.

In 1880, the French Fernand Forest invented the first low-voltage magneto ignition. In 1885, he created the carburetor float and constant level. It is on this principle that all carbs are made for more than 70 years. But the major imprint of Forest in the history of the automobile remains the Lifetime Achievement on explosion engines. He is for example the invention of the 6-cylinder engine in 1888 and that of the 4-cylinder engine and vertical valves controlled in 1891


Given that the car is very fuel-intensive, the need to supply medium is quickly felt. Originally, drivers carry themselves fuel tanker, they are provided to the pharmacist. A young Norwegian named John J. Tokheim mechanical working in a company is required to handle regular gasoline stored in its atelier. However, he is aware of the risk posed by the storage of flammable liquids in a place where many sparks popping up everywhere. He imagines a storage tank and buried in the outside plant, connected by a water pump changes. His invention gives an additional advantage: that of the precise amount of fuel delivered. The patent was filed in 1901 the first fuel pump is née.

A major innovation also appeared at this time: the tire. The company "Michelin et Cie" is based in Clermont-Ferrand. Brothers Édouard and André Michelin resume construction firm brake pads for bicycles founded by their grandfather and develop the first tire improving tire rubber produced by John Boyd Dunlop 1888. Real technical innovation, tires will revolutionize automobile, finally giving low rolling resistance and stability with a better grip. Experience shows that Chasseloup-Laubat tires offer resistance to the advance 35% lower than those of solid wheels. Developed and patented in 1891, the first Michelin pneumatic tube containing also offers the possibility of démontable. In 1895, they built the Éclair, first car equipped with this invention. Tires are inflated to the Lightning 6.5 kg and wear in 150 miles on a car traveling at 15 km / h moyenne. The two brothers are convinced that in a few years, all cars will be equipped with tires. The story will give raison.

Many other innovations are emerging: the braking and steering improves significantly, wooden spoked wheels are abandoned in favor of metal shelves, drive shaft replaces the usual chain. Spark plugs, allowing optimal cold start, also make their apparition.