Automobiles are road vehicles that can carry a small number of people and move themselves, rather than having to be pulled by horses or other animals. They are a crucial form of transportation in many urban and suburban communities. More than 90 percent of American households own a vehicle. The automobile revolutionized the way we live, work and play.
Cars are complex machines with multiple systems that all work together. The heart of every automobile is its engine, which is powered by chemical energy, like gasoline or diesel fuel, or electricity. The power of an engine or motor, measured in kilowatts or horsepower, determines how fast the car can move.
The invention of the automobile allowed people to travel farther distances for business and pleasure. It also opened new opportunities for employment and housing, especially in rural communities. Automobiles also helped people explore different parts of a city or region and visit relatives in distant locations.
The automobile caused some social problems as well, such as traffic jams and air pollution. Automobiles can be expensive to own, but they can save individuals money in the long run by eliminating the need for public transportation, taxis or ride-sharing services. They can also provide a good credit history, which may help when it comes time to buy a house or other major purchase. Automobiles give millions of people around the world jobs, including those who build and maintain them. Millions more work in gas stations, restaurants and motels that travelers stop at.