Car Glossary India - Index H

An articulating, rotating shaft used in independent-suspension systems to transmit power from a differential to a wheel.

A performance-oriented technique of down-shifting while braking that requires the driver to use all three pedals of a manual-transmission car simultaneously. To perform a heel-and-toe downshift, the driver brakes with the toe of his right foot and while continuing to brake uses the heel or the side of the same foot to blip the throttle and raise engine rpm as he downshifts. The left foot operates the clutch pedal in the normal fashion. The sequence is as follows: brake with the right toe; depress the clutch with the left foot; shift to neutral; while continuing to brake, blip the throttle with the side or the heel of the right foot to raise rpm; shift to a lower gear; let the clutch out; release the brakes. The technique is difficult to master, but after practice it can be performed in less than a second.

An extremely rigid articulating joint, commonly known as ”spherical rod-end” used in any precision linkage. Helm joints are often used in the suspension links of race cars because they locate wheels very precisely.

A Helical gear is designed such that the teeth are cut at a slanting angle to the gear’s circumference. This design produces an even and constant tooth loading in a gear set.

HEMI is a word used to describe any engine that has hemi-spherical combustion chambers in its cylinder head.

The Heads-Up Display system allows the driver to view relevant vehicle information without being distracted. All information and images are displayed on the front windshield for the driver. Usually this type of display includes turn signal indicators, high beam indicator, and a warning to check gauges. The display can be turned off as per the driver’s requirement.

High Intensity Discharge headlamps provide better lighting for increased forward visibility. These types of headlamps produce 2 ½ times more light compared to conventional halogen bulbs. Also, these headlamps last longer and perform better (using 35 percent less power) in comparison to filament bulbs.

Horsepower is the common unit of measurement used in India to express an engine’s power.

The hydraulic lifter maintains zero clearance within the valve train by adjusting its length using the oil pressure from the engine and simple valve structures.