CARGenerationen

CARGenerationen is a framework used in automotive historiography and cataloging to classify the evolution of car models and platforms into distinct generations. The term conveys the idea that a model sometimes evolves through large-scale redesigns that redefine its engineering and design language, rather than through minor cosmetic updates alone.

In this framework, a generation begins with a substantial shift—such as a new platform, chassis architecture, propulsion system, safety regime, or core technology—and ends when the next major shift occurs. Typical metadata for each generation includes its designation (generation number), approximate start and end years, key technical changes, market reception, and representative models.

Applications include historical catalogs, museum labeling, and comparative studies of design language and technology adoption. CARGenerationen helps researchers separate cosmetic facelifts from genuine redesigns and supports restoration decisions, archival tagging, and digital databases.

Limitations arise from subjective boundaries; different manufacturers and researchers may assign different generation boundaries to the same model. Clear documentation, official announcements, and engineering milestones improve consistency and cross-brand comparability.

See also: product life cycle, automotive design history, platform strategy, generational taxonomy.