Automobiles are four-wheeled vehicles that can carry a driver and passengers. They have a chassis and suspension to support the weight of the vehicle, a engine that uses fuel (gasoline, diesel, or kerosene) to create energy to turn the wheels, and a body designed to protect passengers from the elements. Automobiles are made of steel, aluminum, plastic, glass, and other materials. They need to be refueled periodically, and the body needs to be cleaned regularly to remove dust and grime.
The automobile revolutionized society in the 1920s, forming the backbone of a consumer goods-oriented economy and providing jobs for millions of people. It also polluted the air and put a strain on dwindling world oil supplies. Engineers have struggled to meet the challenge of making automobiles safer, cleaner, and more efficient while still meeting consumers’ demands for style and comfort.
Automakers produce many different types of cars to meet the needs of different market segments. Some are designed to be sporty and luxurious, while others offer more room for cargo or passengers. Cars have a wide range of interior features, including climate control, power windows and doors, and entertainment systems. They also have safety equipment, such as seat belts and airbags.
Having an automobile gives people freedom to travel to places they want without having to rely on public transportation or friends and family for rides. They can attend meetings, go on vacations, and make appointments that are important to them. Car ownership can even lead to a higher credit score and help people afford to buy homes.
There are more than 1.4 billion cars worldwide. Most of them run on gasoline, but some use other fuels like electricity and natural gas. Cars need to be fueled regularly, and the amount of energy they create is measured in kilowatts or horsepower. They can travel up to three trillion miles (5 trillion kilometres) each year.
