An introduction to the Car-Parrinello (CP) method is given from the point of view of classical molecular dynamics. Here, a formulation is described that uses Vanderbilt's ultrasoft pseudopotentials, which yield generalized Kohn-Sham equations containing overlap operators. These pseudopotentials have recently made it possible to apply the CP method to systems containing first-row elements and transition metals. A simulation of liquid copper is given as an example. Other recent developments related to ab initio molecular dynamics are also discussed. © 1993.