motive power

• Énergie ou force qui fait bouger ou fonctionner quelque chose, souvent utilisée dans un contexte d'ingénierie ou de transport pour désigner la source d'énergie d'un véhicule ou d'une machine.

The energy or force that causes something to move or operate, often used in engineering or transportation contexts to refer to the power source of a vehicle or machine.

1. Mechanical energy sourceC1formal

   The energy or force that causes motion in a machine or vehicle.

   force motrice

   • Steam engines provided the motive power for early trains.
   • Electric motors supply the motive power for modern electric cars.
   • The turbine generates the motive power needed to drive the generator.

2. Driving forceC2formal

   A figurative force or influence that drives action or progress.

   force motrice

   • Innovation is the motive power behind economic growth.
   • Her passion for justice was the motive power of her activism.
   • Curiosity serves as the motive power for scientific discovery.