Automobiles are self-propelled vehicles that run on four wheels and use a gasoline or other engine to power themselves. They may also be powered by alternative means such as electricity. They can be categorized by their shape, size, type of engine, drive system, Engine position and whether they are designed for passengers or cargo. There are even special vehicles for specific purposes such as crane vehicles at construction sites and fork-lifts in warehouses.
Karl Benz is generally credited with inventing the automobile in 1885, though there were many inventors and engineers who contributed to its development. He was followed by Henry Ford, who introduced the assembly line, which greatly increased production so that cars could be purchased at affordable prices. The automobile changed society in countless ways, including making it possible for people to travel farther and more quickly than ever before.
Today, there are many different types of automobiles on the market, ranging from sedans and sports cars to SUVs and crossovers. While some of them may be better or worse than others, each one offers a unique set of capabilities and features. For example, the Audi RS6 S wagon delivers car-like handling and fuel economy with SUV-like capability and space, while the Subaru Outback provides an excellent combination of family utility and off-road prowess.
Some modern automobiles have been developed with advanced technology to make them safer. This includes systems that detect potential accidents and automatically brake the vehicle when it senses danger. Other advancements in automobile technology have made them cleaner and more energy efficient than ever before. In the past, these innovations were often optional extras, but nowadays they are becoming mandatory in order to meet safety standards.