Automobiles are vehicles that use an internal combustion engine to move. They are the dominant mode of transportation in most industrialized countries and many urban areas in the United States and Europe. In addition to their personal uses, they also provide a flexible means for transporting goods. The automobile has had an enormous influence on the economy, politics and social structure of modern society.
The automobile was invented by Karl Benz of Germany in 1885 and it became a commercial success soon after. Benz was followed by other inventors and entrepreneurs, including Henry Ford of the United States. Ford streamlined the manufacturing process by using assembly lines, which made cars affordable for middle-class Americans.
Pros: Having an automobile saves you time and money on commuting, running errands and visiting friends. It also gives you freedom to travel long distances, even in bad weather. Cons: Most automobiles run on gasoline, which releases carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere. This pollution can contribute to climate change and global warming. In addition, owning a car can be expensive to operate, especially if you are not careful with fuel consumption. Additionally, you will need to keep your vehicle insured and in good condition.
The basic parts of an automobile include the chassis, the engine, the transmission system and auxiliaries. The chassis is a major component of the car that holds all the other components in place. It is typically made of steel. The engine is usually located at the front of the vehicle over or ahead of the front axle. There are also mid-engine and rear-engine designs, but these are less common.