Automobiles are powered by a gasoline or electric motor that drives the wheels, which turn under power and friction from the tires. The wheels are supported by the chassis, which must be strong enough to support the weight of the car and flexible enough to react to changes in road conditions. The steering assembly, suspension, and body also mount on the chassis. The engine provides power for driving the automobile, while the steering system and brakes control its direction and speed.
The automobile has revolutionized modern society, creating new industries and transforming existing ones. For example, it has stimulated participation in outdoor recreation and spawned related businesses such as service stations, motels, restaurants and recreational vehicle manufacturers. It has facilitated the growth of cities by allowing people to live in one place and work in another, and it has enabled individuals to expand their social circles beyond what would be possible without personal vehicles. It has led to the development of highways, which have increased the convenience and speed of travel and reduced costs.
It is important for people to have access to reliable transportation in order to be able to get around on their own and pursue their goals in life. Having a car makes it much easier to run errands and attend events, which allows individuals to spend more time on their hobbies. It is also a necessity for people who have jobs that require traveling, as it can make going to different locations much less stressful. In addition, having a car can save people a lot of time by eliminating the need to wait on other people for rides or schedule time to meet with friends and family members.
Having a car also enables people to go on vacations, which is a great way to relax and enjoy life. In addition, it is convenient for people who want to shop or visit other parts of the country.
In the early 20th century, American automotive manufacturers dominated the world market because of their capacity to produce large numbers of cars quickly at moderate prices. They were aided by cheap raw materials, lack of tariff barriers between states and the nation, and a large population base that tended to buy cars even if they had only modest incomes. However, engineering in the postwar era often emphasized nonfunctional styling and a desire for higher unit profits that came at the expense of quality and fuel efficiency. This resulted in cars that polluted the environment and depleted dwindling international oil reserves. These problems were largely corrected by the introduction of new models that met federal standards for safety, emissions and energy consumption. The popularity of small, fuel-efficient, functionally designed cars grew after that. The industry was further revolutionized by the emergence of technology that produced hybrids, which can operate in either gasoline or electric mode depending on the driving situation.