Automobiles, also known as cars or motorcars, are self-propelled automobiles designed primarily for passenger transportation. They are powered by an internal-combustion engine using a volatile fuel. Historically, most automobiles were propelled by gasoline, although they can be driven by other liquids or gaseous fuels such as natural gas or propane. Modern automobiles are complex technical systems employing thousands of subsystems with specific design functions. These systems have evolved from breakthroughs in existing technology as well as the development of new technologies such as electronic computers, high-strength plastics and special alloys of steel and nonferrous metals.
SAVES TIME
The most obvious benefit of having your own car is that it saves you time. Being able to cross town in a few minutes spares you a lot of time on your daily commute, shopping trips or visiting friends and family. With people leading such busy lives, time is a precious commodity, and having a vehicle means you can spend more of it doing things you enjoy.
PRIVACY AND FREEDOM
Another important benefit of having your own car is the freedom and privacy it gives you. While this may seem like a small thing, it can be hugely beneficial when you live in an urban area where public transport is not as efficient or reliable as it could be. Having your own vehicle also allows you to travel further afield without having to take the bus or train, which can be a lifesaver when you have limited holiday leave.
IMPROVED SAFETY
With the introduction of automobiles came improved safety standards and more ways for drivers to protect themselves and their passengers. Safety belts, airbags and other safety features have drastically reduced the number of deaths and injuries in automobile accidents. Many of these advances have come about as a result of technological innovations and research by automakers and independent scientists.
Karl Benz, an engineer from Germany, is generally credited with inventing the first automobile in 1885. Benz’s vehicle was similar to the steam vehicles built in Britain by Thomas Rickett and Frederick William Lanchester, but it had an internal combustion engine.
Initially, automobiles were expensive and were only used by the rich. However, after Karl Benz’s invention, more affordable and durable automobiles began to be manufactured. This allowed more people to use them, and more roads were paved. This led to the development of suburbs, which are communities that surround cities and towns.
Automobiles have four basic components: chassis, engine, transmission system, and auxiliaries. The chassis is the main structure of an automobile that supports all other components. It has a frame, axles, and a body that is usually made of fiberglass or steel. The axles are connected to the gearbox and propeller shaft, and the gearbox has a clutch assembly that connects to the gear train. The gear train provides different gear ratios, which then determine the rotary speed of the output shaft from the gearbox.
The differential is also attached to the gear train, and it transfers the power from the engine to the road wheels. The differential causes the outer road wheels to move at a slower pace than the inner ones. This is a necessary function because the automobile must be able to turn corners, even when moving at full speed.