Automobiles are motor vehicles that are designed for passenger transportation on land. They have four wheels and an internal combustion engine that is powered by a fuel, most often gasoline. The first automobiles were invented in the 1860s. Siegfried Marcus used a handcart with a two-stroke gasoline internal combustion engine to build the world’s first crude automobile in 1870. In the same year, Gottlieb Daimler fitted a carriage with a four-stroke engine that worked in a similar way.

The automobile revolutionized society in many ways. It gave people more freedom and time. They could travel to places they couldn’t easily reach before the car. This meant they could visit friends and family in distant cities, work or school in another part of the country, or take vacations to places that were more exotic.

In addition to changing the lives of individuals, the automobile also helped create new industries. Businesses that served the transportation needs of cars and their passengers included gas stations, repair shops, hotels, restaurants and fast food franchises. Some companies made accessories for automobiles like radios, tires and other parts, while others produced automobile components.

Some people think that the invention of the automobile was one of the most important technological developments in history. It has brought the world a great deal of convenience and enjoyment, but it also has had some negative effects on the environment. For example, the exhaust from cars has led to air pollution and the removal of wetlands and other natural areas.

An automobile is a vehicle that has been designed to be self-propelled. It has an engine that is powered by the motion of the wheels, as well as a transmission system that transfers power from the drive wheels to the axles. It also has an aerodynamic center of gravity and suspension that helps with the stability of the car.

The design of an automobile depends on its intended use. For example, vehicles for off-road driving must be able to resist severe overloads and extreme operating conditions. In addition, they must be stable at high speeds on limited-access roads. Automobiles that are primarily designed for city driving need to be smaller, quieter and less expensive.

As the automobile industry has evolved, it has become increasingly competitive. Some manufacturers introduce a wide variety of models each year, while others make few changes to their existing lines. The latter have gained a reputation for reliability and quality, which is why they are often favored by consumers.

Some of the most popular automobiles are SUVs, which offer a combination of passenger and cargo space. Other types of automobiles include sedans, hatchbacks, station wagons and vans. Each of these types has its own unique features and benefits.