Thousands of parts make up the modern automobile, which is one of the most complex machines ever made. Like the human body, its various systems work in tandem to perform a variety of functions. These include circulatory systems for cooling water and lubricating oil, as well as fuel and air intakes. The engine, the heart of the automobile, includes cylinders, pistons and tubes that deliver gasoline to them.
Throughout the first century of automobile development, anti-horseless carriage sentiments fueled a host of restrictive laws. Louis Greenough and Harry Adams of Pierre, South Dakota, for example, built a car with an Elkhart wagon and a two-cylinder Wolverine gas motor in 1889 but were denied permission to haul passengers at the county fair. In fact, many cities banned automobiles entirely.
However, as the century wore on, the automobile became more and more accepted by society, leading to new industries that grew to service it. Eventually, the automobile brought people more personal freedom and allowed them to spend time with friends and family. It also opened the doors to new career opportunities and gave rise to social movements such as women’s rights.
Today, there are more than 1.4 billion cars in operation worldwide, making them the world’s most popular means of transport. Automobiles have become a vital part of the global economy and, as such, they play a critical role in our daily lives. They save us the time and hassle of arranging transportation or getting to places on schedule. It allows us to save time and energy for doing other things that matter most.