Automobiles are four-wheeled motor vehicles that were invented for the transportation of people and goods. Most definitions of a car state that they run on roads, seat one to eight people, and are primarily used for transportation. Here are some of the most important milestones in the history of automobiles.

Development of internal combustion engine

The internal combustion engine in automobiles has undergone many developments over the years. These advancements were made possible through the work of automobile companies. In the years following two devastating world wars, the requirements for vehicles changed dramatically. New technologies and inventions made possible engines that could operate on land, water, and air. With the increase in automobile sales, people’s perception of vehicles changed as well.

First car

There are several theories regarding the creation of the first car. Some believe that it was an animal drawn carriage, while others believe that the first car used an internal combustion engine. However, the first modern automobile was not developed until 1886, when the Benz Patent Motorwagen was patented.

First gasoline-powered car

The first gasoline-powered car was invented in 1873 by an American engineer named George Brayton. Although the vehicle was more of a handcart than a car, it still is the first gasoline-powered vehicle. Other inventors are credited with the invention of the automobile, including Karl Benz, Enrico Bernardi, and Gottlieb Daimler. In addition, Etienne Lenoir created the first car with hydrogen fuel.

First mass-produced car

A first mass-produced car is an automobile made with standardized parts and manufactured on a large scale. It was made in Germany and France. In the United States, mass production started in the 1900’s. This type of car had a standardized engine, transmission, and wheels. This was an improvement over the hand-built ego trips of the previous century.

First electric car

The Henney Kilowatt was the first mass-produced electric car. It was a rear-wheel-drive electric car. Its propulsion system was designed by the Eureka Williams Company (better known for making vacuum cleaners), which later collaborated with researchers at Caltech. The car was a modest success, selling 47 units in two years.

Future of electric cars

While EVs are still very expensive, they will soon become less expensive than internal combustion vehicles. Additionally, battery technology continues to improve, and EVs will have lower maintenance costs. As more consumers switch over, more automakers will increase their commercial efforts to convince consumers to switch.