What does 'd' represent in cars?
2 Answers
d stands for D-segment cars. This type of vehicle represents large luxury sedans. Sedan: Generally refers to small passenger vehicles accommodating 2 to 8 people. Based on engine displacement, they can be categorized into five types: micro, subcompact, compact, mid-size, and full-size sedans. SUV: SUV stands for Sports Utility Vehicle, commonly known as "off-road vehicles". They typically come in 5-seater and 7-seater configurations. Functionally, SUVs are usually divided into urban and off-road types. Modern SUVs generally refer to models based on sedan platforms that combine sedan comfort with certain off-road capabilities. MPV: MPV stands for Multi-Purpose Vehicle, often called business vehicles. These multi-purpose vehicles evolved from station wagons, combining the spacious passenger area of station wagons, the comfort of sedans, and the functionality of vans. They typically feature a two-box structure and can seat 7-8 people.
When I first started learning to drive, what did the D on the gear lever mean? It stands for Drive, the standard forward position for automatic transmission vehicles. After starting the car, press the brake, shift to D, release the brake, and the car moves forward smoothly with the transmission shifting gears automatically—super convenient. As a beginner, I found this much easier than manual transmission, with no need to worry about the clutch or shifting timing. But remember to shift to P and engage the parking brake when parked to prevent rolling; at red lights, it's best to shift to N or stay in D while braking to avoid transmission wear. For daily driving, D handles most road conditions, like city traffic or highway cruising, providing a smooth and fuel-efficient ride. My instructor always said, 'When in D, stay alert to road conditions—safety first.' In short, understanding D is fundamental to driving, and with practice, it becomes second nature.