The automobile, also known as a car or motorcar, is a wheeled vehicle designed to transport people. It is powered by an internal combustion engine, mainly gasoline (petrol), but also diesel or kerosene engines. Automobiles usually have four wheels, and they are able to travel over paved roads. Some vehicles are built specifically for special purposes, such as fire engines or ambulances. Others are built to haul large loads, such as containers or trailers. Other special vehicles are used by the military or for law enforcement.
The first modern automobiles were developed in Germany and France in the late 1800s. Inventors such as Karl Benz, Gottlieb Daimler and Nicolaus Otto made gas-powered automobiles that were a significant improvement over horse-drawn carriages. These early automobiles were expensive, however, and out of reach for most middle-class families.
In the early 1900s, the automobile became much more affordable. In the United States, Henry Ford revolutionized the auto industry with the assembly line, which allowed him to make many cars quickly and cheaply. His Model T automobile was an enormous success. Soon, other companies began to produce automobiles on an assembly line as well. The automobile brought many changes to society and industry. It opened the doors to careers in manufacturing and service industries, such as oil and gasoline, rubber, and then plastics. New services, such as gas stations and convenience stores, sprang up to meet the needs of drivers. People gained greater freedom to move around and spend their time as they wished.
Today, there are more than 1.4 billion passenger cars on the world’s roads. These vehicles cover about three trillion miles (5 trillion kilometres) each year. Most of these are in the form of automobiles, although trucks and buses are also important modes of transportation. Passenger cars are the dominant mode of family transportation in the developed world, and automobiles are also a major part of global commerce.
Automobiles have become a vital part of American culture, from the simple Model T Ford to the artful mid-century modern designs that cruised U.S. highways and byways in the 1950s. The automobile helped turn the United States into an industrial powerhouse, and it is one of the most influential inventions in human history.
The automobile makes it possible for individuals to live in different areas and commute to work or school, which increases their job opportunities and social circles. Having an automobile also allows for quicker trips to visit friends, relatives or other places of interest. It can save a lot of time compared to taking public transportation, such as trains or buses. The automobile also offers a greater level of comfort than other means of transportation. People can take a nap or listen to music while traveling in the car, which helps reduce stress and make the journey more enjoyable. People can also save money on gas and parking fees by avoiding the use of public transportation. Lastly, the automobile is more reliable and safer than walking or cycling to get around.