Definition

Noun: 1. The system of components that transmits mechanical power from the engine to the driving wheels of a vehicle. This includes the clutch or torque converter, transmission (gearbox), driveshaft, differential, and axles.

Usage

The term "power train" (also written as "powertrain") is used specifically in the context of vehicles and machinery to describe the entire assembly that generates and delivers power to produce motion. * The electric vehicle has a much simpler power train than a traditional gasoline car. * A major focus of automotive engineering is improving power train efficiency.

Advanced Usage

• "Powertrain warranty": A type of vehicle warranty that covers the major components of the power train (engine, transmission, etc.) for a specified period.
  • The car comes with a 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Variants and Related Words

• Powertrain (n): A common alternative spelling, often written as one word.
• Drivetrain (n): A closely related term. While sometimes used interchangeably with "power train," "drivetrain" often refers specifically to the components the transmission (e.g., driveshaft, differential, axles) that deliver power to the wheels.

Synonyms

• Driveline
• Gear train (Note: This is a more general engineering term for a system of gears and can be a component a power train.)

Related Terms (Contextual)

• Engine (n): The component that generates power, which is then transmitted by the power train.
• Transmission (n): A key component of the power train that changes gear ratios to control speed and torque.

Noun

1. wheelwork consisting of a connected set of rotating gears by which force is transmitted or motion or torque is changed
   • the fool got his tie caught in the geartrain