Automobiles are motor vehicles, usually four-wheeled, which carry passengers and goods. They are a major source of transportation in the United States. These types of vehicles are used by an estimated three trillion people each year.
The automobile is the world’s largest industry. It is a highly technical system, involving thousands of component parts. Modern cars have evolved from the innovations and safety legislation that came after World War II.
Automobiles are generally classified into two categories – passenger cars and goods vehicles. Passenger cars are the most common form of transportation in the United States. However, automobiles are used in all countries in the world.
Vehicles are also categorized on the basis of their size, engine, and transmission. For example, a Nano car is a small vehicle with an engine in the rear. On the other hand, a minivan is a large vehicle with an engine in the front and an automatic transmission.
Automobiles are made of a variety of materials. The main materials are metal and plastic. In addition, they are powered by an internal combustion engine.
During the first half of the twentieth century, the American automobile industry dominated. As manufacturing techniques improved, the price of automobiles began to drop. This led to a higher per capita income in the United States.
After the Second World War, demand for automobiles grew in other countries. Production soared in Europe and Japan.
Although a majority of automobiles are built in the United States, foreign manufacturers make up a large portion of the market. About one-quarter of the passenger cars in the United States come from foreign manufacturers.