Automobiles are cars, trucks and buses that use an internal combustion engine to propel them. The engines burn gasoline, diesel fuel or other liquids to produce the energy that drives the wheels and turns on lights and other systems. Automobiles are complex machines and have many parts that work together to keep the car running, comfortable and safe for passengers. The systems include an engine, brakes and steering. The body of the car is made from metal or strong plastic. The doors, windows and trunk are part of the vehicle as well.
Inventors and engineers have been working on automobiles for several hundred years. Karl Benz invented the first modern automobile in 1885 and others developed improved models. Henry Ford revolutionized the automobile industry when he used mass production to make affordable cars for many people. Before the introduction of mass production, cars were usually expensive and built for wealthy people.
Today, many countries require passengers to wear seat belts and children must be in special seats. There are also rules about driving safely and obeying traffic laws. Some cars are becoming computerized so that they can drive themselves. These cars may not be ready for use on public roads, but scientists are working on them.
The demand for automobiles has grown over the past century. They are more convenient than walking or riding a bicycle if you need to go a long distance, and they can carry more luggage. They are faster than buses or trains (steam-powered, diesel-powered, electric-powered, monorail or light rail), and they can go places where public transportation cannot. Four-wheel drive “off road” vehicles are particularly good at navigating rough roads and other harsh environments.
One advantage of having your own automobile is that you can travel at your own pace and schedule. You can leave earlier or later than the crowd if you need to avoid traffic problems like accidents or construction that slow down other drivers. You can also change routes if the route you planned to take is closed or unsafe.
Automobiles provide jobs for millions of people around the world who work in factories that make them or at gas stations, restaurants or motels where travelers stop. They can also cause problems when they are driven recklessly or when they pollute the air we breathe. In addition, many people die in car accidents every year and they can fill up parking spaces in cities. But, as long as people obey traffic rules and use their cars responsibly, they can be a great way to get around. And, as technology improves, automobiles will probably become safer and more environmentally friendly. There are even some women who drive cars! Two such women, Nell Richardson and Alice Burke, traveled across the United States in 1916 to advocate for votes for women. Their cars were decorated with banners saying, “Votes for Women.” This was a bold move for those times. It is still difficult for women to travel alone, but with the right car, they can be as independent as men are now.