Cars have greatly evolved over the years since their beginnings back in the early 1900’s. Many things have evolved surrounding cars as well, such as the roads they drive on, the distance that they travel, and the demands we have put on cars.

One of the biggest evolutions to cars is hardly visible to the average person. The engine computer, otherwise called the ECM (engine computer module) was developed to help improve many things about the way an engine performs.

A side benefit of the desire to improve the emissions of our cars is the increased gas mileage. The gas mileage of our vehicles has continued to improve as engine computers have improved in their performance. While some people do not care as much about the environment, they will never complain about the improved gas mileage.

The emissions of vehicles have been and continue to be a large issue and point of discussion. The impact on the environment that our cars have is a concern. However, the ECM has been and will continue to be a large factor in the improvement of emission levels. The ECM does this by continually adjusting the fuel, air and spark to the condition of the driving. This reduces the pollution of the vehicle.

The ECM also serves as a monitoring system for the driver and can make them aware when there is a problem. When a problem is detected, it sends a signal to the instrument cluster in the dash telling a light to turn on that will indicate to the driver that there is a problem. Also, a code number is stored in the ECM that is accessible by a mechanic. That code will tell him what the exact problem is allowing him t o know what to fix.

Engine computers also monitor things like the coolant temperature and oil pressure. These things used to be monitored via a mechanical gauge. The ECM will then send a signal to the instrument cluster only if the normal operating parameters are broken. This will in turn activate a light in the dash indicating a potential problem.

The engine computer is perhaps the most important improvement on cars out of any other improvements that have been made over the years. Ironically, the engine computer is also the least visible to the general public.

We will certainly see more improvements to cars as time moves on. There may never be a car like we see in the movie, “Back to the Future”, but there will be drastic changes that impact our travel. One such change is very close. Chevy announced a new car, called the Chevy Volt which they claim is able to get 230 miles per gallon. It is scheduled to be on lots in 2010.