The electrics in a car are powered by a battery, which is recharged while the engine is running by a car generator.
Here’s a general overview of the system:
* Battery: This is a device that stores electrical energy and provides power to start the engine and operate the vehicle’s electrical components.
* Generator: It is a device driven by an engine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. While the engine is running, the generator produces current and charges the battery.
* Voltage Regulator: This is a device that regulates the voltage produced by the generator.
* Electrical System: It is the system of wires, relays, fuses and other components that distribute electricity to the various electrical components of the car such as the headlights, audio system, air conditioning, etc.
* Ignition: This is the system that creates the spark needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine. It is powered by a battery and controlled by the engine management system (ECM).
When the engine is running, the alternator produces current that charges the battery and powers the vehicle’s electrical components. When the engine is turned off, the battery provides power to start the engine and operate major electrical components such as lights and radio.