Automobiles are a type of motor vehicle that can be powered by a gasoline or diesel engine. They are a form of transportation that has revolutionized the world. They can be used for both passenger and cargo transport.
Modern automobiles have a wide range of features that make them safer and more comfortable for passengers. These include airbags, crumple zones and seat belts. They also have automatic start/stop and antilock brakes.
In addition, many cars have a computer that can help drivers make safe and efficient driving decisions. They can also monitor the status of the engine, fuel tank and other systems in order to alert the driver to a problem.
Some of these features are called safety technology and can be found in all kinds of vehicles, from small sports cars to large trucks. They are designed to protect people and cargo from weather, accidents or other hazards.
The first modern automobile was invented by Karl Benz in Germany in 1886 and was called the Benz Patent-Motorwagen. He began to make and sell them in a factory.
Despite their popularity, automobiles can be dangerous to drive, especially when they are in a hurry or have too much traffic. They also pollute the air.
Fortunately, there are other ways to travel quickly and cheaply in a city without owning an automobile. Some cities and towns offer public transportation such as buses, trains or trams. These can help reduce congestion caused by cars and make it easier to get around.