Technology, government safety, emissions laws, and consumer trends have led to some interesting automotive technology advancements, but some have been setbacks.
What automotive tech item was a step backwards?
Give us your take in the comments section.
Hydraulic power steering pump.
The shoulder belts that were on a motorized track in the late 80’s or was it early 90’s
Door mounted automatic sear belts that unlatched and retracted when the door was opened!? Who’s idea was it to purposely eject people during an emergency???
the carburetor. throttle bodies and fuel-injected cars have been around since the 30s, but car makers insisted on the carburetor
Air pumps and 3 gazillion vacuum lines to reduce emissions, who where they fooling…
Why bring distorted partisan politics into an automotive discussion? Can’t you read?
Agreed!
Ethanol fuel
YES! It burns too hot and caused all sorts of engine issues.
Ethanol burns at a far lower temperature than gasoline. You can place it on your skin, light ethanol, no pain. Try that with any gasoline, then repost. Ethanol has no lubricating properties and absorbs water like a sponge. It erodes injectors and introduces water into gasoline fuel systems. It is corrosive to the materials used in fuel delivery systems. But “burns too hot?!” You failed 5th grade science, didn’t you, Ely?
All safety equipment! It makes drivers complacent and less diligent and cautious. I think safety is one of the main reasons huge gas guzzling SUV’s are so popular. I know so may people who drive them because they feel safe sitting up high with tons of steel and air-bags around them while they pay no attention to other vehicles on the road.