Automobiles are vehicles designed for passenger transportation and powered by an internal combustion engine fueled most often by gasoline, a liquid petroleum product. They are one of the most universal of modern technologies, manufactured by one of the world’s largest industries. Automobiles are complex technical systems consisting of many subsystems with specific design functions. They have evolved from breakthroughs in existing technology as well as new technologies in areas such as electronic computers, high-strength plastics and alloys of steel and nonferrous metals.
In the United States, automobile production has dominated industry for much of the twentieth century. By the 1920s it ranked first in value of output and provided one of every six jobs in the nation. It also accounted for a significant portion of the country’s consumption of steel, oil and other industrial products. In addition, during World War I automobile manufacturers produced a substantial number of military vehicles and war materiel.
Karl Benz is generally credited with inventing the automobile in 1885. Others were to follow with their own designs. Until the 1920s, most cars were made by hand and were expensive to own. Then came Henry Ford with his assembly line to speed up production and make them affordable for middle-class families.
Cars have become one of the most important technologies of all time. It is hard to imagine how society would function without them. Having an automobile means that you can travel to work or school and visit places on your own. This enables you to explore different lifestyles and expand your social circle in ways that were not possible before. It also means that you can live in a place that is more convenient to where your career is located rather than based on where you want to live.
Most people take their automobile for granted, but there are some things that you should know before purchasing or leasing one. For example, you need to learn about the different types of automobiles and how they differ in terms of performance, size and fuel economy. You should also be aware of the environmental impact and safety concerns. You should also learn about the latest technology in automobiles, as there are always new innovations being made. You can find out about these latest developments in auto publications and websites.