Because of the numerous breakthroughs that took place during this decade, the 1960s will constantly be remembered as an important period in the history of the automotive industry. The era was marked by the introduction of ground-breaking automobile designs and advances in technological capability. In order to compete with the Big Three automakers—General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler—who have dominated the market for a number of years, a great number of other worldwide automobile companies emerged throughout the course of this decade. These businesses discovered methods to develop models that could be sold at competitive prices while still being exported to the market in the United States.

Despite this, the Big Three maintained to hold an overwhelming majority of the market share in the United States. The following are some of the advancements and breakthroughs that occurred in the automobile industry in the 1960s.

Alternator

Vehicles manufactured before the 1960s did not have an alternator, therefore the battery could not be charged and the electrical systems could not be powered. During this time period, the only types of cars that possessed alternators were those that were deployed as specialty vehicles during World War II. However, in 1960 Chrysler manufactured the Plymouth Valiant, which was the first production automobile to feature an alternator. This achievement was accomplished by Chrysler. After some time, this new idea became commonplace, and other automobile manufacturers began using it.

Using Aluminum Alloy

Because of its significantly lower weight in comparison to steel, aluminum alloy quickly became the material of choice in the automotive sector. The automobiles that were produced using aluminum alloy had improved structural integrity and were resistant to corrosion. Because of this, it lasted significantly longer than similar products constructed with steel and iron.

Seal Belt

Even though seatbelts became mandatory in the 1950s, many drivers continued to refuse to use them because they were too uncomfortable. Seatbelt use became mandatory in many states in the United States in 1962, with the goal of reducing the number of people killed or injured in automobile collisions. A few years later, in 1968, it was mandated that all automobile manufacturers must equip at least the front seats of their vehicles with seatbelts. In addition to this, they have to have padded interiors and energy-absorbing steering columns installed in their vehicles. In addition, anti-theft transmission locks, side marker lights, and front head restraints were required to be installed on all vehicles.

Emission Control

The Clean Air Act of 1963 in the United States and the Vehicle Air Pollution and Control Act of 1965 in 1965 mandated car manufacturers to develop ways to lower emissions in order to reduce the discharge of harmful chemicals into the air. These laws were enacted in order to protect public health. Throughout the 1960s, the automobile manufacturers worked on developing emission controls, but they did not achieve their goals until the 1970s. They began by using gasoline containing lead, but eventually invented catalytic converters, which transformed poisonous fumes into a substance that was less harmful to the environment.