Automobiles (plural: automobiles) are four-wheeled vehicles designed primarily for passenger transportation and powered by an internal combustion engine using a volatile fuel. They are one of the most universal and common of modern technologies, produced by one of the world’s largest industries and incorporated into the fabric of everyday life in almost all countries on earth. The modern automobile consists of a number of interrelated technical systems with specific design functions, including the body, chassis, drive train, engine, control systems and electrical equipment.
The automobile was perfected in Germany and France toward the end of the nineteenth century by men such as Gottlieb Daimler, Karl Benz and Nicolaus Otto. The 1901 Mercedes-Benz model is generally credited with being the first true modern motorcar in all respects. American manufacturers quickly came to dominate the industry in the early twentieth century as they innovated mass-production techniques and introduced new models to a market eager for fast, efficient cars that were affordable to middle-class families.
Pros: The convenience of owning a car allows individuals to travel to destinations that are not easily accessible by public transportation. Having a vehicle allows people to schedule appointments according to their own timeline and to take trips on their own terms. Cons: Automobiles are expensive to purchase, insure, and maintain. They also release a significant amount of pollutants into the environment, contributing to climate change.
Public transportation is often a more economical and convenient alternative to automobiles, especially in densely populated areas with congested traffic. Buses, trains (steam-powered, diesel-powered or monorail), trams and subways can get you to your destination faster than a single automobile, and they may be less frustrating in heavy traffic.
In addition to being costly to purchase and operate, an automobile can be a dangerous mode of transport for passengers. It is susceptible to crash damage and the potential for rollover accidents, causing deaths. Automobiles also create a significant amount of air pollution, particularly in urban areas, and the combined global use of automobiles is partly to blame for climate change. If you’re concerned about these issues, consider buying a hybrid or electric car.