What Is Automotive Engineering?
Automotive engineering is a specialization in the field of vehicle engineering, and can be separated into three major fields of study: production, development, and manufacturing. Production engineers are often called design engineers, and focus on the design components and systems of a car. Engineers in this field may be involved with designing and testing of parts, coordinating tests, and ensuring that vehicles meet national standards. Development engineers are involved with the various attributes of a car including performance, durability, and speed. A manufacturing automotive engineer is primarily involved with how to make and construct various vehicles.
Job Description and Responsibilities of an Automotive Engineer
After completing training with an automotive engineering degree program, an automotive engineer is commonly involved with projects such as:
- Designing components and systems
- Determining the best attributes for a particular car or future vehicle
- Developing standards and codes for efficient production
- Determining costs and implementing procedures to reduce manufacturing costs
- Introducing and developing new techniques and systems for automotive production
- Ensuring governmental regulations are followed during all steps of production
- Determining driveability
- Implementing quality control techniques and procedures
- Solving automotive engineering problems
- Conducting statistical analysis as needed
Automotive engineering colleges prepare students with hands-on experience and training on a variety of technical subjects and applications. Simulations are often a part of the curriculum, and these can help students understand how various systems are implemented, and how to configure processes to produce the desired results.
Automotive Engineering Career Options
Graduates of automotive engineering schools can work in a variety of careers in the field of automotive design engineering and related disciplines. The most common automotive engineering career options include:
- Safety Engineering
- Emissions Research or Controller
- Noise, Vibration, and Harshness Engineer (NVH)
- Performance Engineer
- Vehicle Dynamics Controller
- Systems Engineer
- Operations Research
- Vehicle Manufacturing Engineer
Safety engineering involves the assessment of crash scenarios and determining the feasibility of various vehicle designs. Safety engineers are commonly involved with crash testing and complying with government regulations. Emissions researchers are involved with fuel economics and emissions testing. NVH engineers work on design and construction of vehicles to ensure that noise, vibration, and harshness are reduced. Performance engineers specialize in the driver’s perception of the vehicle’s power, accelerator ‘feel,’ and shift quality. Vehicle dynamics controllers are commonly involved with the design of suspension, braking, steering, and chassis systems. Other positions in the field of automotive engineering are research-intensive, and often involve direct application of mathematical models and formulas.
Enrollment in an Automotive Engineering Degree Program
An automotive engineering degree program provides simulation training and hands-on experience in the field. An internship or work study program is often a component of many automotive engineering colleges, and this can provide immediate job placement after graduation. High school studies can train students for a successful automotive engineering degree program. Students need to be proficient in calculus, advanced math, statistics, physics, chemistry, and geometry.
Most automotive engineering schools generally offer the following programs as part of an automotive engineering undergraduate curriculum:
- Manual Transmission and Transaxle Principles
- Engine Electrical systems
- Circuits and Electronics
- Engine Principles
- Motorsport Technology
- Powertrain Systems
- Automotive Design and Manufacturing
- Steering and Suspension
- Basic Fuel and Emission Control Systems
- Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer
A background in automotive engineering can also provide options in other fields such as an auto mechanic, machinist, product designer, or educator. An auto mechanic may work on construction of cars and diagnoses of various automotive problems. A machinist is often involved with metalworking equipment to work on the blueprints of the car developed by automotive engineers. Product designers are involved with the manufacturing and development of vehicles, and often work as part of a team of designers in the field.
Most automotive engineering schools and colleges offer a standard engineering degree, along with a specialized course of study in auto mechanics. A bachelor’s degree from an automotive engineering college can serve as the foundational education for a variety of fields.
An automotive design engineering program focuses on the exterior and interior design of automobiles, and often includes training with computer aided drafting and design applications. Simulations are also a core part of training in these degree programs, and provide students with the hands-on experience they need to become skilled in design.
Accreditation for Automotive Engineering Schools and Colleges
Automotive engineering colleges and schools are accredited by The Accreditation Board for Education and Technology (ABET).
Future Employment Prospects and Earning Potential an Automotive Engineering Career
The automotive engineering industry is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations through 2014. Despite the slow growth of the automotive manufacturing industry, there is still a high demand for skilled engineers who specialize in technology and computer-aided processes. Modern product designs and a focus on an increasing fuel-efficient economy offer valuable opportunities for a successful automotive engineering career.
Automotive engineering colleges provide a solid foundation for a long-term career in the field. The National Association of Colleges and Employers reports that starting offers averaged $48,585 for those with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.
Related occupations include:
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Body Engineers
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Aerodynamics Engineers
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Quality Engineers
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Logistics/Transportation Engineers
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Environmental Engineers
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