An automobile (or car) is a wheeled passenger vehicle that has its own motor and can run on road. It has four wheels, seats one to seven people and is built primarily for transporting people rather than goods. There are 590 million automobiles in the world as of 2002. The cars have become an important part of modern life and the branches of engineering that deal with them are called automotive engineering.
Having your own car lets you get around without having to depend on others for rides and spend time waiting for them. It can also save you money on taxis and other types of public transportation. Automobiles are often faster than walking or riding a bike and can carry more cargo. They can be used for longer distances than many other types of wheeled vehicles and can be driven in places that are difficult to reach by other means.
The first automobiles were developed in Europe and America toward the end of the 19th century. Gottlieb Daimler and Karl Benz are credited with inventing the modern automobile, though they did not know each other and worked independently. Eventually Henry Ford developed the automobile to mass production at his Highland Park, Michigan, plant. The automobile revolutionized American life in numerous ways and has had a great impact on society in general. It helped create a consumer culture and led to the development of new industries and services, such as gas stations and fast food restaurants. It also caused environmental problems, such as air pollution and the use of large amounts of undeveloped land for highways.
There are many different types of automobiles, from coupes to vans. A coupe is a car that has two doors and can be considered sportier than a sedan. A sports car is another type of automobile that can be considered sportier and more luxurious than a regular car. A sedan is a vehicle that can seat several people and may have either four or six doors. A station wagon is a vehicle that can hold lots of cargo, and is similar to a van. An SUV is a vehicle that can carry passengers and cargo, and is typically larger than a sedan or a wagon.
An automobile can make it much easier to do everyday tasks, such as shopping and going out to eat. It can also help you travel to work and school, and to visit friends and family. An automobile can be a major investment, but it can be a worthwhile purchase if you plan on keeping it for a long time.
The disadvantages of owning an automobile include the cost, maintenance, insurance and fuel costs. Automobiles can also cause traffic jams and congestion, as well as air pollution. They can be damaged in accidents, and may even crash if they are not properly maintained. It can be difficult to find parking spaces in busy cities, and some areas have strict laws about where you can park your automobile.
