A car, or automobile, is a type of vehicle that moves on four wheels. It is self-propelled by an engine, and carries people for their personal transportation purposes. It can be made of many different types of materials, from metals to plastics to composites.
The first automobile was designed in 1877 by George Baldwin Selden of Rochester, New York. His design incorporated a steam engine, and Selden applied for a patent on the new invention.
Modern cars, however, are powered by gasoline or diesel internal combustion engines. These have been developed to meet the needs of a wide range of consumers.
They offer excellent gas mileage, low carbon emissions and high power output. They are also able to accelerate quickly and be used for long distances.
Despite all these advantages, there are some downsides to owning an automobile. These include the cost of maintenance and repair, fuel, depreciation, taxes, parking fees, and tire replacement.
These costs are not only a burden on individual motorists but also on society as a whole. In addition, the environmental impact of automobile ownership is significant.
In addition, there are a number of safety issues related to owning an automobile. These can include loose brake caliper bolts, steering issues, electrical problems and other malfunctions. These can lead to accidents. Therefore, it is essential to choose a vehicle that offers safety features and has been rated by the NHTSA as being safe for driving.