Automobiles are motor vehicles used to transport passengers on roadways. They are most often powered by gasoline, but can also use diesel fuel, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), or electric power. In addition to the engine, an automobile contains a chassis, bodywork, and electrical equipment, as well as service devices.
There are many different types of automobiles, including sedans, hatchbacks, convertibles, and SUVs. Some cars are designed for performance, while others are built for efficiency or comfort. Regardless of their intended purpose, all automobiles need to be able to stop and steer effectively. This is accomplished by a system of brakes and steering that uses friction to slow the car, or regenerative braking to convert some of the energy of movement into electricity to recharge the battery.
The automobile is the best-known of all modern inventions, and it has had a profound effect on American culture. It was not until the early 20th century that the technology of automobiles became affordable for most Americans, thanks to Henry Ford and his revolutionary idea of mass production. The Model T, a cheap, reliable automobile that could get you from one end of the country to the other, put America on wheels.
Some automobiles have been powered by steam, but this was a cumbersome and slow method of transportation. The internal combustion engine, invented in the late 19th century by Karl Benz and others, allowed engines to work by burning a fuel—gasoline, diesel, or kerosene—to create heat that turned a piston and powered the wheels. This invention was a major step forward, and it opened up new ways to travel for both business and pleasure.
Today, there are more than 73 million automobiles in the world. Most are made in countries such as the USA, Japan, Germany, France, and the Republic of Korea. Some of them are hybrids that combine an electric drive with a traditional gasoline engine, and they have become popular as a way to cut down on carbon emissions. Some people have no choice but to own a car, especially those in rural areas with limited public transportation options. These people may not be able to afford to take the time to make arrangements for taxis or trains, and they find that having their own car saves precious seconds when they need to get somewhere quickly.
A new car requires a substantial investment, but most buyers are willing to pay for a vehicle that offers safety, style, and performance. Choosing the right automobile depends on many factors, and buyers should carefully consider their driving needs and budget when selecting a car. For example, they should consider whether the automobile is to be driven in urban or rural areas and whether they will need to carry cargo on occasion. They should also consider the cost of gasoline and other fuels, insurance, and repairs. Then they should test drive several vehicles and choose the one that suits them best.