Automobiles, also known as cars, are motor vehicles that run mainly on roads and carry one or more passengers. Automobiles have four wheels and an internal combustion engine fueled most often by gasoline (petrol). Trucks, vans, buses and limousines are automobiles too, but the term is usually reserved for passenger vehicles.
Having your own vehicle allows you to travel to work and school without having to worry about whether the bus will arrive on time, how much room there will be for you or the safety of your belongings. You can also go on long drives and visit family, without having to depend on the quality of local public transport.
Cars are designed to carry a maximum number of passengers and to make it possible for them to drive in cities, towns and rural areas with poor road conditions. They are generally faster than walking or riding a bicycle, and they can transport more luggage than a bike or a bus. They are able to cover longer distances than other forms of wheeled transportation, and they can reach places that cannot be reached by any other type of transport.
Modern life is almost inconceivable without a car. People use them to get to work, school and shopping. They can go on trips, visit their relatives and take a break from the busyness of everyday life. Cars can be very expensive, but they save time and effort that would otherwise be spent in search of a transport solution.
They are a symbol of wealth, status and freedom. They are a major source of pollution and automobile accidents, but they can be safer than other types of transport if you respect the rules of the road and use them properly. It is important to have your automobile checked regularly by a mechanic to ensure that it is safe to drive and to keep it in good working condition.
There are many different kinds of automobiles, designed to suit different needs and tastes. Some are designed to be sporty and fast, while others are more comfortable or economical. Some are designed to be environmentally friendly, using alternative fuels such as natural gas, ethanol and wood gas. Increasingly, they are being fitted with safety systems such as airbags, stability control and blind-spot monitoring. They are made in various shapes and sizes, with some having roofs that can be opened or removed for an open-air driving experience. The most popular are sedans and sports cars. The engines in most cars are located at the front, as this improves their performance and makes it easier to balance the vehicle. However, the recent development of lightweight materials and new manufacturing techniques has made it possible to mount them at the rear, as well. This is becoming the norm in many countries. It is even possible to have a hybrid car that runs on both gasoline and electricity. This can reduce the amount of pollution produced and lower the price of fuel.