A car is a motor vehicle that runs on four wheels and transports passengers over long distances. It is similar to a bus and truck/lorry, but it has less cargo space and can travel faster. The automobile originated in Europe toward the end of the 19th century and the United States dominated the world market for the first half of the 20th century through mass production techniques. The automobile has had a great impact on the economy and society.
Automobiles are usually powered by an internal combustion engine that uses fuel to turn the wheels. The fuel can be gasoline, diesel or kerosene and is injected into the combustion chamber to make the pistons in the engine move. This pushes the crankshaft forward, turning the wheels and propelling the automobile. The amount of energy that is produced by the engine and transferred to the wheels is measured in kilowatts or horsepower.
The body is the outer shell that houses the mechanical parts of the automobile and passengers. It is made of steel or strong plastic and is designed to protect the passengers from the elements. It is also used to give the automobile a distinct look. Many designs and styles of cars are available. These include a coupe, which is two-door and has a fixed roof and a small back seat; a hatchback, which is like a coupe but with a sliding door on the rear; and a minivan, which is taller and can carry up to nine people.
Modern automobiles have a number of safety features. They all have seat belts, which are worn by the driver and passengers, to help prevent them from being thrown around the interior of the vehicle during an accident. Child seats are also available, which are placed in the back of the vehicle. Most cars also have brakes, which work to slow the automobile and stop it when parked. Some have regenerative brakes, which convert some of the energy that is wasted when stopping to speed up the engine again.
In addition to these basic safety measures, most automobiles have radios and air conditioning to keep the passengers comfortable while traveling. Some cars also have navigation systems, which allow drivers to find their way and avoid obstacles. Some also have alarms, which are used to warn the driver of possible problems on the road.
Having your own automobile gives you independence and freedom from having to rely on others for transportation. It can also reduce the time you spend in traffic. In fact, statistics show that riding in a car is much safer than using public transportation. Having your own car can also save you money on gas and parking. It can also increase your job prospects, as companies are more likely to hire employees who have their own cars. However, if you are not ready to buy your own car, you can still rent one from a company like Hertz. This service is easy to use and will provide you with a clean, reliable vehicle for your daily commute.
