Automobiles are a major source of pollution and the depletion of natural resources like oil. But they also provide a means of transport for people from urban areas to rural areas and back again. Many people would find life very inconvenient without access to a car. Modern life would not be possible without cars and trucks.
In this article we are going to look at the history of automobiles and their effect on society. The first automobiles were steam powered and electric but by the early 20th century the gas-powered internal combustion engine had taken over the roads of America and Europe. Henry Ford revolutionized the industry with his assembly line and his Model T which made the automobile affordable for middle class families. The automobile is now the main mode of transportation in the world and there are more than sixty million cars produced each year.
The first automobiles were designed and built by men but by the 1920s there was a push for women to have rights and be allowed to drive. This change was a big influence in the social changes that happened during this time. Women began to travel outside their homes to work, shop, and visit friends. Women could not always walk to places where jobs were available but the car gave them a way to get there quickly and conveniently.
Automobile production slowed down during the two world wars as manufacturers focused on producing for the military and then post war. After the wars many different features were added to automobiles including power steering and brakes. During this period many large cars were made which used up lots of fuel at a time when oil was very cheap. As a result the question came up about if there was a better way to transport people without using so much oil.
Today most automobiles are still powered by fossil fuels but there is a movement to move away from this type of vehicle. Hybrid and electrical vehicles are now coming onto the market. It is hoped that the future of automobiles will be computerized machines that can drive themselves and be programmed to avoid collisions with other cars and pedestrians.
The automobile body is the outer shell that holds the mechanical parts and the passengers. It is usually made of steel although there are some bodies that are fiberglass or plastic. The body is designed to look attractive and have the necessary features such as head and tail lights, engine grill and hood and storage trunk. Various styles of automobiles are available from coupes, which have only two doors to minivans that can hold up to eight or nine people. There are even limousines available to transport people for special occasions. All automobiles must have safety features which include seat belts and child seats. There is also a dashboard that shows a few instruments such as speed and oil pressure. Most cars have stereos and air conditioning.