Automobiles are wheeled vehicles used for passenger or goods transportation. They can be powered by either an electric motor or an internal combustion engine. They usually have four wheels and seat one to eight passengers. They may be designed with an attractive shape, as well as low vibrations when running. They are often designed with a clear all-round view through glass areas.

In the first half of the twentieth century, the automotive industry grew rapidly. After World War II, automobile production in Europe and Japan increased dramatically. The United States also saw a surge in car production. The Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler companies became the “Big Three” automakers.

Modern cars are complex technical systems. They employ thousands of components. They are driven by gasoline, electricity, or a fuel-cell. In addition to their engine, they have a chassis, a body, and many other systems. They are built by companies that employ engineers, scientists, and other professionals. The market for these cars has grown to about 70 million a year.

Today, automobiles are the main form of transport in most societies. They are powered by a gasoline or electric engine and are available in several designs and types. They may be front-mounted, rear-mounted, or even battery-powered. They have been developed to carry a large number of passengers or goods. They can also be modified for improved speed, comfort, or handling.

During the nineteenth century, bicycle builder Ernest Michaux and other inventors developed similar contraptions. But it wasn’t until the late 1800s that the modern automobile was invented. It was based on an internal combustion engine that was first invented by Dutch scientist Christiaan Huygens. In the early 1800s, steam engines were inconvenient to start, and had limited range.

The American manufacturing tradition made automobiles affordable to middle-class families. In the 1920s, automobile production fell. However, the economy recovered and demand for automobiles was boosted by government subsidies and low interest rates. By the mid-twentieth century, the automotive industry had become one of the largest industries in the world.

In the United States, one-quarter of all new passenger vehicles are manufactured by foreign manufacturers. As a result, American automobiles are not quite as popular as foreign-made automobiles. Nevertheless, the United States is the largest country in terms of passenger vehicle sales. The number of vehicles is rising by 5 to 10% each year.

The automobile’s popularity has grown due to the increasing number of people. According to statistics, Americans travel three trillion miles a year. This is a significant contribution to the nation’s economy. It is also a lifeline for many people.

In the past, the automobile industry was dominated by just a few companies. In the United States, the Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler firms dominated the market. After World War II, these companies re-emerged as the so-called “Big Three” automakers. This made the auto industry a global industry. In addition, new technological developments were recognized as the key to successful competition.