motorisering

Motorisering is the process of introducing or expanding the use of motors to perform work that was previously done manually, by animals, or with non-motorized equipment. It encompasses a wide range of technologies, from combustion engines and electric motors to hydraulic systems and steam engines, and it affects transportation, industry, agriculture, and daily life.

Historically, motorisering began with steam power in the late 18th century, but its most rapid expansion occurred with internal combustion engines in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The 20th century saw widespread motorization of personal transport, logistic networks, and farm machinery, transforming urban and rural economies. Electrification and automation have continued to reshape motorization in recent decades.

Common domains include motorized transport (cars, motorcycles, buses, trucks, railways), industrial machinery (pumps, compressors, manufacturing lines), agriculture (tractors, harvesters), construction (excavators, cranes), and household appliances.

Impacts include increased productivity and mobility but also environmental effects such as emissions and resource use; regulatory measures (emission standards, safety requirements, licensing) and infrastructure (roads, charging networks) shape motorisering. The transition to electric and hybrid systems aims to reduce climate impact; autonomous systems and robotics are expanding motorisering in logistics and manufacturing.

Variations by country reflect development stage and policy priorities; in some contexts motorisering is linked to modernization, while in others it raises concerns about congestion, air quality, and dependency on energy imports.