Automobiles are vehicles used for transporting passengers or goods. They are powered by an internal combustion engine or electricity. The branch of engineering which deals with the manufacturing and technology of automobiles is known as Automotive Engineering. Today, automobiles play a major role in our lives and without them the luxuries of the modern world cannot be imagined.
The automobile is a highly complex technical system comprising thousands of component parts with specific functions. The body, chassis, engine, drivetrain, control systems, safety and emission-control systems are the main components of a car. The evolution of automobiles is a continuous process and research and development engineers are always looking for the next breakthrough to improve performance, reduce fuel consumption, enhance safety features, or to make them environmentally friendly.
Pros: OPENS THE WORLD
One of the biggest benefits of having a car is that it opens up a whole new world to people. Having your own vehicle means you can travel long distances quickly and easily. This opens up more work opportunities, allows you to visit more of your friends, and gives you more freedom in where you choose to live.
Cons: One of the biggest drawbacks of having an automobile is that it contributes to air pollution and the depletion of natural resources like oil. The exhaust fumes from cars cause a lot of pollution and lead to global warming, especially in large cities with massive driving populations. Cars also pollute the environment by releasing greenhouse gases that absorb and trap sunlight, causing it to warm the earth’s atmosphere.
CAN BE SLOW AND STRANGE
The first automobiles were not that fast and they often had problems with strange noises, bad handling, and poor brakes. But as the technology improved, these issues became less of a problem and the automobile became a very useful tool for everyday life in America.
By the 1920s, there were more automobiles than horses on American roads. This was a big shift in society that had many social effects. People were able to shop in towns and cities, families were able to go on vacation together, teens gained more independence with driving freedom, and dating couples had a portable place to have a private conversation.
By the 1930s, though, the market reached saturation and technological stagnation began to occur. With the start of World War II, most automakers focused on producing for the war effort, and this resulted in a decrease in the quality and functionality of American made cars. This opened the door for foreign cars, particularly the fuel-efficient and functionally designed small cars from Japan. The automotive industry has since made progress in reducing emissions and increasing fuel efficiency, and many manufacturers are now offering hybrid electric automobiles that run on both gasoline and electricity. They are becoming increasingly popular. In the future, experts predict that we will see more electrical and autonomous cars as the world shifts away from traditional internal combustion engines.