An automobile, also called a car, is a motor vehicle designed to transport people. It usually has four wheels and is propelled by an internal combustion engine fueled mostly by gasoline.

A car can travel long distances and carry many passengers at once. It can also store luggage and other equipment. Some cars have a roof that can be opened for driving in bad weather. Some vehicles use an electric motor instead of a gasoline or diesel engine to drive the wheels. Others use a pistonless rotary engine like the Mazda Wankel.

Most modern cars are designed to meet strict safety standards. They have front and rear airbags to protect the driver and passengers, and anti-lock braking systems to prevent the tires from skidding on icy roads. They are also equipped with sensors to detect dangerous road conditions and warn drivers. Some cars have voice recognition features that can help the driver control and operate the vehicle.

Automobiles have changed society in many ways. They have allowed people to travel farther than ever before, which opens up new work opportunities and allows them to visit relatives more often. They have also brought people together by making it easier for them to get together for social activities.

Having a car can save you time, money, and hassle. It can make it easy to go grocery shopping, take the kids to school or sports practices, and visit family. It can also allow you to leave work earlier and avoid the rush hour traffic. And it can give you more freedom to travel for fun and explore the world.

The history of the automobile is a fascinating one. Its development was influenced by a wide range of factors, including government regulation, technological innovations, and consumer demand. The first recorded automobiles were steam engines attached to wagons in the late 18th century. By 1900, gas-powered internal combustion engines had replaced the steam ones. Electric automobiles were also available, but they had a limited range and required lengthy periods of time to recharge.

The automobile has remained a common mode of transportation, and it continues to influence life in the United States. It has helped to create jobs in the construction and maintenance of highways and local streets, as well as industries that produce fuel, tires, and other essential automobile components. It has also spawned the development of services such as fast food outlets, convenience stores, and gas stations.