Automobiles, also known as cars are wheeled vehicles that carry people and often have an engine. They are designed to run primarily on roads and have seating for one to eight passengers. The most common type of automobile is powered by an internal combustion engine that uses gasoline or diesel as fuel. The engine uses air, fuel and a spark to create energy that moves the pistons in the car’s cylinders and through a series of gears turns the crankshaft. The powertrain then delivers the energy to the wheels via a transmission and drives the vehicle forwards or backwards.
Automobiles give people access to places and jobs that would be inaccessible without them. They are a major source of income for many families. They provide the means for people to take vacations, visit family and friends and enjoy leisure activities. They have brought about new services such as hotels, restaurants and amusement parks. The automobile has also changed society in other ways. It gave women the opportunity to drive and to be independent. They took advantage of this in the 1910s and 1920s by driving around with “votes for women” banners to advocate for the right to vote.
The downside to the automobile is its harmful effects on the environment. The emission of pollutants from gas powered cars causes climate change and contaminates the water supply. When cars are disposed of they can leach lead battery acids into landfills which have harmful effects on the environment as well.