The device in a car used to light cigarettes or power electronic devices is commonly known as a car cigarette lighter. However, in modern vehicles, the term "cigarette lighter" is somewhat outdated as fewer people use it for smoking purposes. Instead, it is primarily used as a power outlet for charging smartphones, GPS devices, or other electronic gadgets.
Most car cigarette lighters consist of a socket with a heating element that becomes hot when the vehicle's ignition is turned on. To use it, you simply push in the lighter element and wait for it to pop out, glowing red and ready to ignite a cigarette or power a device.
It's worth noting that with the rise of electric vehicles and the decline in smoking rates, many newer car models are being manufactured without traditional cigarette lighters. Instead, they are equipped with USB ports or other types of power outlets to cater to the changing needs of drivers.
So, if you're looking for a car cigarette lighter in a modern vehicle, you might actually be searching for a power outlet or a 12V accessory socket where you can plug in a charger or any other electronic device.