Automobiles are four-wheeled vehicles that are used to transport people or goods. They are the most common means of transportation in the world, used by millions of people each day. Cars are usually driven by human beings, but can also be operated by computers or other automated systems. Automobiles are generally faster and more convenient than walking or riding a bicycle for long distances, and can carry more passengers. They can also travel over rough terrain where other forms of wheeled transportation cannot.

Powered by an internal combustion engine, they use fuel such as gasoline, diesel, kerosene or electricity to convert chemical energy into mechanical energy to move the vehicle forward. They are designed to be comfortable and safe for their passengers, with many amenities including air conditioning and power steering. Some are even capable of operating autonomously, although these systems are not yet widely available.

While the first automobiles were built by European manufacturers, most modern cars are manufactured in Asia. This is primarily due to cheaper raw materials, a strong manufacturing tradition, and the absence of tariff barriers that encourage sales over a wide geographic area. The United States, in particular, has an immense land area that encourages automotive transportation and a higher per capita income than Europe, which leads to greater demand for automobiles.

The American manufacturer Henry Ford introduced mass production techniques in the early 1900s, which allowed him to produce large numbers of automobiles inexpensively. This made them more affordable for the average person, and he became known as the man who “put America on wheels”. This revolutionized the way Americans commute, and many of the amenities we take for granted today were introduced during this time.

After World War II, many automakers shifted their focus from producing fast cars to making them easier and more comfortable to operate. This era saw the introduction of steel bodies, power brakes and windows, air conditioning, and many other features that are now standard in most modern vehicles.

In the era of climate change, some are concerned about the environmental impact of automobiles. This concern has led to the development of alternative-fuel vehicles, which use fuels such as ethanol or electricity instead of gasoline. These newer cars are not yet widely available, and may have limited range. In the long run, these vehicles are likely to become more popular than traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Automobiles are a significant part of the world economy, and they support more than 9.7 million jobs in the United States alone. This includes direct, indirect and induced jobs. In addition, they contribute $702 billion in wages to the country. A robust auto industry is vital to a healthy U.S. economy. It also supports other industries such as finance, manufacturing and construction. The auto industry has a profound effect on the nation, with each job in the industry creating nearly 10 other positions in other parts of the country. This makes the automobile a key contributor to economic growth and prosperity.