Automobiles are four-wheeled transportation vehicles that allow individuals to travel great distances and carry cargo. They are also a symbol of freedom, independence and power. The automobile has had a profound impact on society in both the United States and abroad. The industry is now undergoing major changes as the Automobile Age melds into a new Electronic Age.
The scientific and technical building blocks of the modern automobile go back several hundred years. In the late 1600s, Dutch scientist Christiaan Huygens invented a type of internal combustion engine that ran on gunpowder. It was not until the late 1800s, however, that a car with a working gasoline engine took to the road. It was a remarkably effective form of transport, but expensive and polluting.
After World War I, manufacturers introduced a series of innovations that revolutionized automobile production and design. The assembly line technique, first developed by Henry Ford, made the Model T affordable for middle-class families. This, in turn, opened the door for mass personal automobility.
Today, cars are a vital part of our lives. They are the fastest mode of transport, provide safe and convenient family transportation, enable us to visit distant relatives and help with our work. Having your own vehicle gives you more control over your schedule and allows you to avoid relying on others for rides, or wasting time waiting for buses and trains. The best cars offer a range of features and appointments to suit your needs. Some are sporty and fast, like the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic. Others are more practical, such as the Kia Forte or Volkswagen Passat.