Automobiles are motor vehicles designed to carry a driver and possibly some passengers. They are powered by an internal combustion engine. They run on a variety of fuels, but the majority use gasoline (or “petrol” in most countries outside North America). The engine burns the fuel to generate power that drives the wheels of the automobile. Most modern automobiles also have a transmission, which can vary the speed of the engine by changing the number of gears it has. The car’s tires are connected to the transmission, allowing the automobile to drive on different types of surfaces. The automobile is also a major source of air pollution and global warming, and many governments are trying to limit its use.

The automobile was first invented and perfected in Germany and France during the late 1800s by engineers such as Gottlieb Daimler, Karl Benz and Nicolaus Otto. Henry Ford, a businessman, came along later and revolutionized the industry with the introduction of the moving assembly line, making automobiles more affordable to middle class families.

After World War II, manufacturers such as Ford, GM and Chrysler came to dominate the automobile industry with their commitment to mass production techniques. Consumer demand for the automobile grew, as people enjoyed greater freedom to explore their own neighborhoods and the country. The automobile encouraged family vacations, enabling urban dwellers to rediscover the countryside and rural inhabitants to shop in cities. Teenagers found independence in the driving freedom that the automobile brought, and dating couples gained a portable place for relaxed sexual attitudes.

The advent of the automobile brought new challenges, such as traffic congestion and accidents. These challenges led to the demand for licenses and safety standards on the state level. The automobile is a very complex machine, and even the simplest models require hundreds of parts to function properly. Whenever something goes wrong, it can be difficult and expensive to repair.

Automobiles are a primary mode of transportation in most developed nations. Most people commute to work and school in cars, while others use them for leisure activities. Many people own several cars, and the resulting transport network is one of the most sophisticated in the world. In addition, the cars themselves are a major industry, with billions of dollars spent on research, design and development each year.

Passenger cars are the most common type of automobile. They are usually built to carry a driver and a few passengers, but some have more seats. Vehicles that can be used for cargo are called minivans, vans and station wagons. A small car that is designed for city driving is often referred to as a hatchback, and a large sedan is known as an SUV. The automobile is a popular way to travel, and it has made it possible for people to live in remote places and to communicate with distant friends and family. The automobile has shaped the economy and culture of the modern world.