Automobiles are wheeled motor vehicles that run on roads, seat one to eight people, and use an internal combustion engine. They are the most common mode of transportation on the world’s modern roads. Various definitions have evolved over the years, but most describe automobiles as “motorized vehicles that transport passengers.”
The invention of the automobile brought many changes to society and culture, including increased personal freedom, new jobs, services like gas stations, and industries to support them. It also helped create a new lifestyle of leisure activities and fast food. But it also brought harm to the environment, notably through air pollution from exhaust fumes and the destruction of undeveloped land to build highways.
A car can help you get to work or school quickly, and it’s great for going on trips with friends and family. However, cars can be expensive to maintain, and you’ll need to pay for fuel, licenses, and insurance. If you want to save money on your vehicle, consider buying used cars or getting a reliable motorcycle.
In the late 1800s, German industrialist Gottlieb Wilhelm Daimler was working on a more efficient gas engine. He had studied engineering in Stuttgart Polytechnic University, and he wanted to develop a more compact engine that could be powered by gasoline. Daimler’s design would eventually be the basis of the first automobiles.
The first automobiles were not affordable for most people, but as production methods improved, manufacturers reduced the cost. Henry Ford innovated mass production techniques in his Highland Park, Michigan factory and lowered the price of his Model T to $575 in 1912, less than the average annual wage. This allowed more middle-class families to afford a car.
Automobiles play a crucial role in our daily lives, and we cannot imagine our world without them. Having your own car gives you the freedom to go wherever and whenever you want, which is especially beneficial during bad weather or if you don’t have time to wait for a bus or ride-sharing service. Having your own car can also be a great way to keep your family safe on the road, as you’ll have control over maintenance and speed.
Owning an automobile is a big responsibility, but it’s well worth the investment. If you’re thinking about buying a new or used car, FICOH can help you protect your purchase with affordable auto, home, and renters insurance.