Boyd’s Bible Dictionary:
(car). A two-wheeled vehicle, used for travel and war (Gen. 41:43; 46:29; 1 Kings 18:44; 2 Kings 5:9). In use by enemies of Israel (Josh. 11:4; Judg. 4:3; 1 Sam. 13:5). Adopted for war by David and Solomon (2 Sam. 8:4; 1 Kings 9:19; 10:26; 22:34; 2 Kings 9:16; Isa. 31:1).
Concise Bible Dictionary:
Except in Song of Sol. 3:9, where the word is appiryon and signifies “sedan, portable couch,” the chariots were vehicles with two wheels, used either for traveling or for war: they are often seen portrayed on Egyptian and Assyrian monuments (Gen. 41:43; Gen. 50:9; 1 Kings 4:26; Ezek. 23:24; Acts 8:28; Rev. 9:9). In Revelation 18:13 the word is ῥέδα, and some describe it as a vehicle with four wheels. The CHARIOT MAN in 2 Chronicles 18:33 is the driver, as in 1 Kings 22:34. A CHARIOT OF FIRE and horses of fire appeared when Elijah was carried up into heaven (2 Kings 2:11-12). When the king of Syria sought to take Elisha at Dothan he was protected by invisible chariots of fire (2 Kings 6:17).
From Manners and Customs of the Bible:
Exodus 14:6. He made ready his chariot.
The Egyptian chariot was a framework of wood, nearly semicircular in front, having straight sides and open behind. The front was of wood, and the sides were strengthened and ornamented with leather and metal bindings. The floor was of rope network, to give a springy footing. The fittings of the inside and the harness were of raw hide or tanned leather.
On the sides quivers and bow-cases were fastened, crossing each other. The wheels were low, had six spokes, and were kept on the axle by a leather thong or linchpin. There was no seat in the chariot. The number of horses to each chariot was two.
The chariot of the king did not differ materially from ordinary war-chariots. He, however, usually rode alone into battle, having the reins fastened around his waist, leaving both hands free to manage his weapons of war.
Jehu seems to have imitated the custom of Egyptian monarchs in driving his own chariot. See 2 Kings 9:20.
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