When did electronic ignition become standard?
Electronic ignition systems have become the standard in modern automobiles, replacing the traditional mechanical breaker point ignition systems that were once ubiquitous. The transition to electronic ignition occurred gradually over several decades, driven by the need for improved engine performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control.
The Shift from Mechanical to Electronic Ignition
Mechanical breaker point ignition systems, which relied on a set of points that opened and closed to generate the spark for the engine, were the standard in automobiles for much of the 20th century. However, these systems had several drawbacks, including the need for regular maintenance, inconsistent timing, and susceptibility to wear and tear. Electronic ignition systems, which use solid-state components like transistors and microprocessors to control the ignition timing, began to emerge in the 1960s and 1970s as a more reliable and efficient alternative.
The Adoption of Electronic Ignition
The adoption of electronic ignition in automobiles was a gradual process, with the technology first appearing as an optional feature on some high-end models in the 1960s. By the 1970s, electronic ignition systems had become more widespread, and many automakers began offering them as standard equipment on their vehicles. The transition was driven by several factors, including:
- Improved engine performance: Electronic ignition systems can precisely control the timing of the spark, leading to better combustion and increased power output.
- Enhanced fuel efficiency: Accurate ignition timing can also improve fuel efficiency, which was becoming increasingly important as concerns about energy consumption and emissions grew.
- Reduced maintenance: Electronic ignition systems require less maintenance than mechanical breaker point systems, as they have fewer moving parts that can wear out or require adjustment.
By the 1980s, electronic ignition had become the industry standard, and mechanical breaker point systems had largely disappeared from new vehicle production.
The Continued Evolution of Ignition Systems
The transition to electronic ignition was just the first step in the ongoing evolution of automobile ignition systems. In the 1990s and 2000s, the development of more advanced ignition technologies, such as coil-on-plug and direct ignition systems, further improved engine performance and efficiency. These newer systems use individual ignition coils for each cylinder, eliminating the need for a distributor and providing even more precise control over the ignition timing.
Today, electronic ignition systems are a ubiquitous feature in modern automobiles, contributing to the improved performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control that drivers have come to expect from their vehicles.
What's better, points or electronic ignition?
Adjusting timing is also quite simple on a point ignition system and can be done with only a few basic hand tools. On the contrary, electronic ignition systems require almost no maintenance, but require additional troubleshooting steps and repair that may not always be practical in certain scenarios.
What year did Ford start using electronic ignition?
Ford Motor Company began using electronic ignitions in 1973 with the Duraspark electronic ignition system and introduced the Duraspark II system in 1976. The biggest change, apart from the control box redesign, was the large distributor cap to handle the increased spark energy.
What was the first car with electronic ignition?
Cadillac Offers the First Electric Ignition in 1911 - 1912
The first self-starting ignition was installed in a Cadillac on February 17, 1911. The invention of the electric starter motor by Charles Kettering eliminated the need for hand cranking!
What year did cars get electric starters?
1912
In 1912 Cadillac put the electric starter on its Model 30 1912 Cadillac and the new invention changed everything. The shift from range-limited electric propelled cars to ones powered by internal combustion engines was immediate and the rest is history.
Which is better standing pilot or electronic ignition?
Since a standing pilot requires constant fuel, an electronic ignition is considerably more cost-efficient. This is because between electronic ignition vs. standing pilot, there would be little to no waste of gas for the first one as it shuts off as soon as the burners ignite.
What year did they start putting electronics in cars?
1968
When Did Cars Start Having Computers? It wasn't until 1968 when Volkswagen released the Type III一the world's very first compact car that was manufactured with an engine computer. The Type III had a Bosch D-Jetronic electronic fuel injection (EFI) system.
When did furnaces start using electronic ignition?
What started to replace standing pilot lights in the 1980s is electronic ignition systems. Rather than keep a flame burning throughout the winter, furnaces with electronic ignition only need a brief bit of electrical power to light the burners—a minuscule use of energy.
What year did Chevy start using electronic ignition?
Corvettes have had electronic ignition systems for over 40 years, starting with the powerful, dependable Delco HEI (high energy ignition) system in 1975 models. Prior to that, nearly all Corvettes, and pretty much every other motorized vehicle since the Model A, had the same simple ignition system.
What year did GM start using HEI ignition?
1975
Chevrolet's High Energy Ignition (HEI) from the Delco-Remy Division of General Motors was first offered in 1974 on production cars, though in very limited numbers. In 1975, HEI became standard on all GM vehicles.
When did electronic ignition become common?
Early cars used ignition magneto and trembler coil systems, which were superseded by Distributor-based systems (first used in 1912). Electronic ignition systems (first used in 1968) became common towards the end of the 20th century, with coil-on-plug versions of these systems becoming widespread since the 1990s.
