Automobiles, also known as cars, are wheeled motor vehicles that run on roads and carry passengers. They come in many different shapes and sizes, designed to meet a variety of transportation needs. The term is most often used to refer to passenger cars, but other types exist for cargo transport and specialized activities like off-road driving or racing.
The automobile has changed modern society, transforming the daily lives of its owners. It has become our number one source of mobility, with 1.4 billion vehicles in operation worldwide. Cars take us to work, school, shopping and leisure facilities, and are our main means of travel over long distances. They also help to connect us with our families and friends.
Almost any place in the world can be reached by a car within a few hours, giving us access to a greater variety of people and places. This has allowed families to live together in different locations and opens up a wider range of possibilities for careers and lifestyles.
In the 1890s and early 1900s many manufacturers produced steam-driven automobiles, but they were heavy and moved very slowly. By the end of the 19th century the development of an affordable gasoline engine sparked a revolution in automotive manufacturing. Henry Ford developed the assembly line, allowing him to produce automobiles quickly and at low prices. Other manufacturers soon followed suit, and the market for cars became crowded with options.
By the 1920s, more people owned cars than ever before. They had grown to be more reliable and easier to operate. Manufacturers introduced new features that increased comfort, including heaters and power steering. Automobile production was booming, and demand for raw materials such as steel and vulcanized rubber rose. This created thousands of jobs in the United States, and a huge economic boom occurred throughout Europe.
While the automobile has greatly enlarged our worlds, it has also brought its own set of problems. Traffic jams, traffic accidents and air pollution all pose serious risks to drivers and other road users. Automobiles also consume large amounts of fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions that are harmful to the environment. However, there are ways to limit greenhouse gases, such as purchasing a more fuel-efficient vehicle and keeping it properly maintained.