Automobiles are self-propelled vehicles that are used for transportation. They use an internal combustion engine fueled most often by gasoline, but also by other fuels such as electricity and natural gas. They are a major source of pollution in modern society and there is much discussion of how to reduce the environmental impact of automobiles. The branch of engineering that deals with the design, manufacture, and technology of these vehicles is known as automotive engineering.
The automobile revolutionized the way people live in America and is one of the most widely used inventions of all time. It is a symbol of modernity, a status symbol and a tool for social mobility and freedom. Many people who own cars are proud to have them and will do anything to protect them. However, there are also risks associated with owning a car. Taking the time to review safety information on how to keep you and your family safe when you are traveling by car is a must.
History credits Karl Benz with inventing the first automobile in 1885, but others worked on similar designs. The first production models were very expensive and reserved for the wealthy, but Henry Ford developed a way to make them more affordable in 1914. The process he created is now called the assembly line, and it dramatically reduced the cost of manufacturing. This meant that more and more people could afford to buy an automobile.
In the early 1900s, American auto manufacturers produced far more automobiles than European firms. The large size of the United States and its vast hinterland encouraged demand, while cheap raw materials and a tradition of mechanization enabled Americans to produce more cars at lower prices than in Europe. American auto companies also played a key role in World War I by funneling a great deal of their production into the manufacture of military equipment and war materiel.
As the years pass, the auto industry continues to grow in size and stature. It is now a massive global enterprise that reaches every corner of the planet. The number of cars that are manufactured each year is staggering and will continue to grow. Whether you are in the market for an old classic or a new sports model, there is something out there that will fit your needs and your budget.