Where Does the Electricity in a Car Come From?

[Megan]

Electricity in a car comes from the vehicle's battery and alternator. Below is a related introduction to the sources of electricity in a car: 1. The engine operates by burning fuel, and the engine's operation drives the alternator to generate electricity. Some of this electricity goes to the battery, which functions to store and supplement electrical energy. Every car is equipped with a battery, also known as an accumulator, which can be charged while the car is running. When the car is parked, the battery stores the electrical energy. The car's battery, also called an accumulator, can store some electricity to provide the power needed for the starter motor to start the engine. 2. When the alternator is running, it charges the battery. The alternator's output is automatically controlled—when the battery is fully charged, it stops charging. When electrical devices in the car are in use, the alternator automatically increases its output. This cycle continues to store electricity.