Automobiles are self-propelled vehicles that use an internal combustion engine to power their movement. They are capable of carrying passengers and cargo and are often used for transportation. Their construction is usually four-wheeled and have controls for steering and braking. Usually they seat one or more occupants in the front and three in the back.
The first cars were built in the 19th century and they were initially powered by steam engines. They were not easy to operate and they did not have much range. However, the introduction of gasoline-powered automobiles in the early 20th century helped them to win over the streets of Europe and the United States.
After World War II, demand for cars increased in Europe and other parts of the world. During this time, manufacturers began to standardize the production process. Advertising was also standardized. Purchasing was standardized across companies and sales were standardized.
The first car was invented in 1886 by a German named Carl Benz. It was called the motorwagen, which means “motor carriage.” He received a patent for it in January 1886. Benz later developed an internal combustion engine. This led to the development of the modern automobile.
Until the start of World War I, cars were mostly used as horse-drawn carriages. In the United States, animal-drawn carriages were replaced by automobiles. Since then, the auto industry has become a major part of the economy. As of the end of 2010, the US population drives 4.8 trillion kilometers per year. Besides transporting people, automobiles are used for cargo and freight.
Cars come in many different designs. There are sport utility vehicles with two seats and sports cars that seat three or more. The cars are often based on an internal combustion engine, but there are also electric and hybrid-powered vehicles. Some cars are voice operated. Most cars have pedals for speed and brakes, and they are equipped with a clutch pedal and buttons for ventilation.
Motorcycles, on the other hand, are self-propelled bikes with fewer components and smaller wheels. These types of vehicles are easier to maintain and have a small number of occupants. Many people confuse them with cars. Typically, they are designed to carry a single occupant, or they have side cars to carry more than one.
Throughout history, the car has changed to accommodate changing technologies. Today, they are a combination of mechanical parts that have been developed over hundreds of years. Modern cars include touchscreen controls and secondary controls, such as a dashboard with a steering wheel and dials for turning on lights.
Before World War II, Japan’s car industry was limited. A few companies produced small three-wheeled vehicles for commercial use. Nissan began as a non-automotive company before the war, and then later became a manufacturer of cars. Suzuki switched to car production during the 1950s.
By the end of the 20th century, the automobile was widely available and considered a necessity for a developed economy. Many cars have been manufactured over the last century, and they have evolved with new technologies. Currently, the automotive industry ranks as the third-largest manufacturing sector in the world. Approximately seven million cars are expected to be sold in 2020.