Automobiles are wheeled vehicles powered by an internal combustion engine. They can be powered by gasoline, diesel fuel, gasohol, air, electric power or another source of energy. There are an estimated 5 – 59 million automobiles in use around the world annually. Many of these cars are owned by private individuals, and the remaining by companies, governments or organizations that provide transportation for passengers or cargo.
Having your own car can offer great convenience and safety. It can help you avoid being late for work or other appointments, especially in less densely populated areas of the country where public transportation services are limited. It can also allow you to spend time with your family without having to worry about how to get home in a timely manner.
The first cars were built in the mid – to late 1800s, but they didn’t become popular until after 1900 when manufacturers began producing them in larger numbers. At the time most were operated by steam, but there were also some that used an internal combustion engine. The most notable was the Model T developed by Henry Ford in 1908, which he produced using mass production methods whereby workers performed one task while moving parts on conveyor belts. This was the beginning of the modern car manufacturing industry.
After World War II the number of automakers dropped and by 1980, Japan had surpassed America as the largest automobile producer. Today there are hundreds of different cars on the market, each with its own unique design. Experts predict that the future of automobiles will be driven by innovations in the fields of fuel efficiency and safety. Alternative sources of energy like biodiesel, hydrogen fuel cells, electric cars and hybrids are all being explored. In addition, more sophisticated features will make driving easier and safer, such as collision avoidance systems, blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.
As laws for car safety and emissions have progressively become stricter, automakers have been forced to make their vehicles more advanced. Some of these technologies are mandatory, such as anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control and tire pressure monitoring. Others, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, are becoming more common, especially as the associated costs drop.
A car is the primary means of transport for most people worldwide, and it has a profound impact on society. It has changed the way we live by changing jobs, education and business. Industries and businesses have developed to supply the demand for cars, including oil and rubber, and services like gasoline stations and convenience stores. It has also improved the environment by cutting down on congestion and pollution, although it does cause problems for some pedestrians. It has also allowed more people to travel longer distances for work and leisure. It has even led to the development of faster and more comfortable aircraft.