An automobile, or car, is a wheeled passenger vehicle with four wheels and an internal-combustion engine powered most often by gasoline, a liquid petroleum fuel. It is one of the most universal of modern technologies, produced by a massive industry that is the backbone of a new consumer goods-oriented society and one of the world’s chief producers of steel, oil, and other basic materials.
The modern automobile is a complex technical system with subsystems that have specific design functions. It consists of an exterior body, chassis, and power train, a drivetrain, and control systems. The drivetrain, the system that converts energy from a turning crankshaft to rotary motion for propelling the wheels, is one of the most critical components. The powertrain must be able to generate the appropriate amount of torque for turning, but it must also be efficient in using that energy and minimize friction losses.
A modern automobile needs to be safe, fast, economical, and reliable. To achieve these goals, engineers continually develop new technologies. These include improved engines, transmissions, and brakes, as well as safety features like airbags and seat belts. In addition, new electronic technologies, high-strength alloys, and advanced manufacturing processes allow manufacturers to build vehicles that are lighter, more powerful, and more environmentally friendly.
It is not clear who invented the automobile, but it was certainly perfected in Germany and France toward the end of the nineteenth century by such engineers as Gottlieb Daimler, Karl Benz, and Nicolaus Otto. In America, Henry Ford came next to create a model that was affordable enough for the mass market. His moving assembly line allowed him to turn out cars quickly and inexpensively.
SAVES TIME: Owning a car means you can get to work on time, do the shopping you need, and go to visit friends or family without worrying about getting stuck in traffic. Having a car also means you can travel longer distances with ease, which translates into more places to explore, greater options for work locations, and more friends in your social circle.
SAFETY: As the laws of the road become stricter, automotive technology is developing to meet new requirements. Many safety features that were once optional are now mandatory, such as tire pressure monitoring and stability control. Others are on the horizon, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping systems.
ECONOMY: An automobile can be a very expensive investment, so you want to make sure you’re getting the best deal on a quality used car. Compare prices on vehicles at your local dealership and look for online auctions and private sales to find the best deals.
A dependable automobile is a must for today’s busy lifestyle. Check out our wide selection of makes and models, then contact us to learn more about the financing options available. We’ll help you get on the road to your dream automobile today!