The modern automobile is a complex technical system of subsystems with specific design functions. These subsystems include the body, chassis, engine and drivetrain, control systems and safety features. In recent years, the automobile has become an essential part of everyday life in many countries. People in the United States, for example, drive over three trillion kilometers (five billion miles) each year. Automobiles are available in hundreds of different models and styles, with new ones appearing frequently. New technological advances make cars easier to operate and safer to use.
Whether you are looking for an efficient electric car or a powerful V8, you can find the perfect automobile to suit your needs. Automobiles are a huge source of pleasure for many drivers, and manufacturers compete to produce the best automobiles that money can buy. Some manufacturers focus on value, while others strive for excellence and quality.
There are many types of cars, ranging from compact two-door coupes to tall minivans that can accommodate multiple passengers. The body of the car is the outer shell that houses all of the mechanical parts of the vehicle and allows space for passengers. This includes the front and rear bumpers, side skirts and spoilers, the hood and trunk, and all of the windows. The body of the car is usually made from steel, although other materials such as fiberglass are sometimes used.
The wheels and axles on an automobile allow the wheels to turn in a circle, while the tires are designed to grip the road in all conditions. The suspension of the car includes springs, which support the weight of the car, and shock absorbers, which reduce vibration. The brakes are operated on all four wheels and use a friction pad to slow down the car when it is braking.
Several different types of engines were used in automobiles before Karl Benz created the first true automobile in 1885/1886. During the early 19th century, a variety of steam-powered cars, including steam buses and phaetons, appeared. Some of these vehicles were propelled by an external combustion engine, while others were powered by steam turbines or an internal combustion gasoline-powered engine.
The invention of the automobile ushered in the age of mass production and revolutionized industrial manufacturing techniques. Henry Ford developed an assembly line that allowed workers to remain in one position and perform a repetitive task as the car components passed by on a conveyor belt. This type of assembly allowed the price of automobiles to drop significantly, making them affordable for most middle-class families. As the automobile became a necessity for modern life, manufacturers introduced innovations to make them more comfortable and safe to use, such as heaters, seat warmers and power steering. Today, most families own at least one car. In areas with poor public transportation or nonexistent service, owning an automobile can save time and money compared to paying for taxis or ride-sharing services. In addition, owning an automobile can provide a sense of independence and mobility that cannot be matched by public transportation options.