We earn commissions from purchases you make using links in our articles. Learn more. The alternator is a device that keeps your car’s electrical system running once the engine is on. It’s essentially ...

Production cars began using alternators in the 1960s. As part of the electrical system, alternators made it possible for cars to use higher voltage, and led the way to the modern car charging system.

There is a common misconception that since your car has a charging system, you have an "infinite" supply of electricity.

Daimler’s Mercedes-Benz Cars has launched a new generation of I4 petrol engines with the C-Class mid-life facelift, adding a 48 volt system with belt-driven starter/alternator to 1.5-litre versions in ...