Automobiles (or cars) are motor vehicles that carry passengers. They usually have four wheels and are powered by an internal combustion engine using a fuel—most commonly gasoline (or petrol in British English). The fuel is burned inside the engine, which powers a gearbox that turns the power from the engine into motion to drive the wheels. An automobile can also be propelled by an electric motor.
Cars allow people to travel longer distances than would be possible on foot, or by horse. This enables them to reach work, school, and other destinations more easily and to travel away from home for holidays and other leisure activities. Having your own car can reduce the time and stress of getting to work by allowing you to leave early or later than everyone else, or to take alternate routes in case of traffic congestion or an accident.
The automotive industry was first developed in Germany and France in the late 19th century. By 1914 Henry Ford had introduced mass production techniques for his Model T, making it the world’s most popular car. Ford was able to produce cars at far lower prices than European manufacturers could, thanks to cheap raw materials and a lack of tariff barriers between states.
The automobile opened up a whole new range of social, leisure and recreational opportunities for Americans. Those with the financial means could visit urban centres to shop and see theatre or sports events, while those without a car still had access to services like restaurants, motels and fast food outlets. In addition, it allowed the middle classes to escape their urban lives and explore country areas, and for rural residents to come into town for employment and services.