Automobiles are powered by engines and are used to transport people and cargo over roads. Most cars burn a fuel to make the engine run and then turn the power into motion by means of a gearbox, which has a number of different gears that can be engaged to change speed or torque. The fuel is typically petroleum based and is usually stored in a tank.
The automobile revolutionized 20th century life in a way that no other invention had before it. It gave people more freedom of movement and created new industries that supported it. It also affected the environment, requiring better roads and more petroleum for fuel. It became one of the biggest industry sectors in the United States and generated huge profits for its manufacturers. It also increased demand for ancillary industries like steel, rubber, glass, and plastics. It even led to the development of services like gas stations.
Though many different inventors and engineers worked to create self-propelled vehicles throughout the 19th century, Karl Benz is often credited with building the first true automobile in 1885. The modern car is a complex machine that requires the work of several different disciplines to function properly.
It takes a team of professionals to design, build, and test the various systems of an automobile. The body of the vehicle is designed to give space for passengers and storage, house the various systems, and make it visually appealing. It also determines the aerodynamic performance of the vehicle. The body is made of a variety of materials, but the most common is steel. The body must be light and strong to keep the vehicle from being too bulky and heavy, which affects performance and safety.
The automotive industry is a significant employer and generates a lot of revenue for the economy. It is also a significant user of raw materials such as petroleum and gasoline, steel, and rubber. It also uses a large amount of electrical energy to power the motors and lights. In addition, it is a major user of labor and provides jobs for millions of Americans.
There were some concerns about the automobile in late 20th century, such as nonfunctional styling of American cars and their reputation as “gas guzzlers”. However, the industry has been able to overcome these issues with advances in technology and improved safety features.
The auto industry is a global leader, with more than 1.4 billion cars currently in use. It contributes to a global economic boom and has spawned new industries in the world. It is the primary source of transportation for the majority of the population in industrialized countries, and is a major contributor to the world economy. The world’s dependence on the automobile has led to growing concern over energy security, air pollution, and climate change. The development of alternative means of transportation is important to help reduce the reliance on automobiles and increase efficiency, including high-speed rail, ferry, and subway systems.