Pronunciation: [ʃˈasi] (IPA) 
The word "chassis" can be a bit tricky to spell, as the pronunciation can be quite different from the spelling. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced /ˈʃæsi/. This means that the "ch" sound is actually the "sh" sound, and the "a" in the first syllable is pronounced like "ah". The "si" at the end is pronounced like "see". So while it may look like it is spelled "ch-ah-sis", it is actually pronounced "shas-see".
A chassis, in the context of mechanical engineering and automotive industry, refers to the framework or structure that serves as the foundation and support for various components of a vehicle. It is the backbone of the automobile, providing structural integrity, strength, and durability.
The primary purpose of a chassis is to hold and organize the essential systems and parts of a vehicle, such as the engine, transmission, suspension, steering, and braking systems. It acts as a structural skeleton that connects these components, ensuring their proper alignment and integration for efficient operation.
Typically made of steel or aluminum, the chassis is designed to withstand the various forces and pressures experienced during vehicle operation, including acceleration, braking, cornering, and impacts. Its construction often involves a combination of rigid frames, beams, bars, and panels, which are engineered to distribute and absorb the mechanical stresses and forces.
Beyond its structural role, a chassis also contributes to the overall handling, stability, and safety of a vehicle. Its design and layout can affect factors such as weight distribution, center of gravity, and torsional rigidity, all of which have a significant impact on the vehicle's performance, maneuverability, and crashworthiness.
In summary, a chassis encompasses the foundational structure of a vehicle, providing a platform for the integration and support of various mechanical components. It is essential for ensuring the strength, stability, and proper functioning of a vehicle, incorporating both structural and functional considerations to deliver optimal performance and safety.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "chassis" entered the English language in the late 18th century from the French language. The French word "châssis" originally referred to a window frame or a structure made to hold glass panes. It derived from the Vulgar Latin word "capsicum", which meant "frame" or "setting". This, in turn, should be traced back to the Latin word "capsa", meaning "box" or "chest". Over time, "châssis" evolved to encompass various meanings related to frames, structures, and supports. In the automotive context, "chassis" specifically refers to the framework that provides structure and support for a vehicle.
