Automobiles are vehicles designed primarily for passenger transportation. They are usually four-wheeled and propelled by an internal combustion engine, powered most often by gasoline or a similar volatile fuel. Automobiles have been an important part of the world economy and one of the most universal of modern technologies, with more than 73 million new ones produced in 2017. The automobile revolutionized the way people live by changing the nature of work, leisure activities, and even family life. It has also had profound economic impacts, with the car creating many new industries and generating jobs.
The automobile is one of the most widely used modern inventions, with the first practical models becoming available in the 20th century. In the United States, Ford’s Model T was the first affordable automobile, and it rapidly replaced horse-drawn carriages. In Europe and other parts of the world, demand for cars grew after World War II.
Modern automobiles are complex technical systems with numerous subsystems designed for specific functions. They are the result of research and development work performed by automotive engineering teams, with each stage in production requiring significant technical advances. These advances have led to improved performance, safety, and environmental sustainability. They have also made possible new services, such as motels, restaurants and fast food chains, and contributed to the development of recreation facilities and leisure activities.
Cars have become essential to modern society, and many people cannot imagine a time when they did not own a vehicle. They provide access to work, schools, and medical care, and enable travelers to visit friends and relatives in distant places. The automobile has changed the shape of cities and created rural communities. It has contributed to the growth of many industries, including road construction, tires, and fuels. It has also changed social relationships and the ways we communicate with each other.
While it has brought great conveniences, the automobile has also caused problems. Exhaust from gas-burning engines has polluted the air and reduced the availability of natural resources. It has also strained the world’s limited supply of oil. The automobile has also resulted in the emergence of many new laws and government requirements, such as seatbelts, driving licenses, and highway regulations.
In the future, there is a good chance that most vehicles will be electric or hybrid. Some experts believe that they will eventually be autonomous. Regardless of the type of vehicle you choose, it’s important to look for vehicles that have a high value-to-price ratio. Consumer Reports’ Top 10 List of the best large SUVs, for example, has a lot of options, with most of them costing less than $30,000.