Glossary of Automotive Design - C

C

Cab

Short for cabin. The enclosed compartment of a vehicle which contains the driver and passengers.

Cab back

The cab of the vehicle is moved to the rear of the vehicle. Cars such as a 1970's Corvette could be considered cab back design.

Cab forward

The cab of the vehicle is pushed forward. This design aesthetic was popular with Chrysler in the 1990s with the introduction of their LH platform cars.

Character line

A line creased into the side of a car to give it visual interest. (interchangeable with swage line) Sometimes implemented by a rubbing strip.

Chrome

Brightwork using chrome plating.

Cladding

Material (usually plastic) added to exterior of the car which isn't structurally necessary. May be functional to keep out dirt/debris as in underbody cladding, or may be cosmetic.

Control Panel

Generally used in a Car/Truck for heating and cooling inside car environment according to the passenger requirements. Basically it is divided in to Different modes, Blower speed functions, AC, Temperature, Fresh recirculation of air. World wide control panel manufacturers are BHTC, Delphi, Visteon, Valeo, etc.

Cowl

The base of the windshield.