Automobiles are a way to get around, but they also cause air pollution and automobile accidents. The term “automobile” refers to any four-wheeled passenger vehicle that carries its own motor. It can seat between one and six people, have a top speed of over 100 km/h, and run on fuel (usually gasoline). Trucks, buses, limousines, and bicycles are all considered automobiles.
Karl Benz, an engineer from Germany, invented the first car in 1885. After that, businessman and engineer Henry Ford revolutionized the industry by introducing assembly line manufacturing techniques. This made cars affordable for middle-class families.
The automobile ushered in a new era of social mobility. It allowed people to travel long distances. This increased their employment opportunities, allowed them to have more friends and family in different places, and opened up their worlds.
Before the automobile, many people were tied down to a location because they didn’t have a means of transport. They had to walk or take public transportation. In addition, if you had to leave early for work or school, it could be difficult to make it on time.
The invention of the automobile changed all that. It gave people a sense of freedom and independence. It was easy to get from point A to B, and it became possible for people to live in the countryside and visit cities. Women even started to use their cars as a form of activism. They drove around with “votes for women” banners.