What does the 'L' in cars mean?
2 Answers
The 'L' in cars stands for liters of engine displacement, indicating that the vehicle is equipped with a naturally aspirated engine. Displacement refers to the volume of fluid intake or exhaust per stroke or cycle, serving as a crucial parameter for measuring a car's performance. It is usually marked on the body or rear of the vehicle. The larger the displacement, the more energy the engine can release per unit of time. In China, passenger car classifications are determined based on engine displacement, categorized as follows: 1. Mini cars have a displacement ≤1.0L; 2. Compact cars range between 1.0L to 1.6L; 3. Mid-size cars range from 1.6L to 2.5L; 4. Executive cars span 2.5L to 4.0L; 5. Luxury cars have displacements exceeding 4.0L.
Over the years I've been driving, the L gear in cars most commonly refers to the Low gear, which is particularly useful when climbing steep slopes or descending long hills. It allows the engine to rev a bit higher, using engine braking to slow down the vehicle and prevent overheating the brake discs from excessive braking. Once, while driving an off-road vehicle in mountainous terrain with a heavy load uphill, I engaged the L gear, and the car remained stable without the usual tendency to slip that I experienced with regular gears. It's also handy when going downhill, sparing the brake system and extending its lifespan. In fact, this design is present in different automatic transmission vehicles, but novice drivers might overlook it since the D gear suffices for city driving. Learning to switch gears flexibly can protect the car's overall performance, making driving safer and smoother, especially during heavy rain or snow. Regular checks of the transmission fluid ensure the L gear operates smoothly, preventing any mishaps.
