Automobiles are a type of transport that uses wheels to propel them forward. They are usually powered by an internal combustion engine using a volatile fuel. They are widely used for passenger transportation and have become a symbol of the modern industrialized world. They have a wide range of applications in the form of family vehicles, delivery trucks, taxis, and buses. They are also used for hauling cargo, such as construction equipment and supplies. The modern automobile has many subsystems that perform specific design functions.
Having an automobile gives you the freedom to go where and when you want without having to rely on others for transport. For example, if you have an interview at a company that is located far away from your home, a car can make it possible to get there on time and not miss your appointment. In addition, owning a car can help you build your credit because it shows potential lenders that you can manage debts and make payments in a timely manner.
The first cars were developed as early as the 1700s and 1800s. They were steam or electrically powered and were very primitive. However, it was not until 1886 that German inventor Karl Benz designed and patented the Benz Patent-Motorwagen that the practical automobile became available for mass production. After the invention of the Model T, the automobile became a staple of the American lifestyle and is still considered an essential component of the modern economy.