The automobile, also known as a car or motorcar, is a self-propelled vehicle for passenger transportation on land that uses an internal combustion engine powered most commonly by gasoline (a liquid petroleum product). It is one of the most common and widespread of modern technologies. The development of the automobile was a major force for change in twentieth century America, and it remains an important part of contemporary life. Automobiles have become a symbol of freedom and mobility for people, and are a vital element of globalization and modernization.
A primary reason for owning a vehicle is that it gives you freedom and flexibility compared to public transport. With your own vehicle, you can go where you want and when you want without having to worry about schedules or being late for a meeting. Another benefit of owning a vehicle is that it can help you transport larger items. If you are moving across the country or a long distance, it can make the move much easier and faster than using a moving company.
Throughout history, automobiles have evolved dramatically in their design and safety features. Originally, many were steam powered, such as those made by Leonardo Da Vinci in the 15th century and Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot in the 1790s. The first gasoline-powered automobiles were built in the 1880s by Gottlieb Daimler and Karl Benz in Germany. By the 1920s, automobiles had taken over most of the world’s streets and highways. The introduction of mass production techniques by American automaker Henry Ford revolutionized the industry, making his Model T runabout affordable for most middle-class families.