An automobile is a four-wheeled vehicle designed primarily for passenger transportation and commonly propelled by an internal combustion engine using a volatile fuel. Modern automobiles are complex technical systems employing thousands of subsystems with specific design functions.
Automobiles are designed for a wide variety of purposes, from the sporty road-racing machines that dominate major auto races to family vehicles built for everyday use. They have a number of other design features, including cushioned seats that support the backs of passengers and body panels constructed from a variety of materials. For example, automobile bodies can be constructed from steel section pillars paired with aluminum panelling or all-aluminium cars where pillars, structures and panels are crafted from lightweight aluminum components.
One of the most significant changes the automobile brought to American society was that it allowed people to move around with greater ease. This gave them more freedom and access to jobs, services and places to live. It also created new industries to supply the demand for automobile parts and fuel. Oil and gas companies, rubber, and then plastics industries grew to meet the needs of automobile manufacturing. Other businesses developed to service the automobile industry, such as convenience stores and automotive repair shops.
The automobile has also influenced the way that Americans spend their leisure time. Activities such as recreational travel, amusement parks, restaurants and fast food have grown to take advantage of the convenience and speed that automobiles provide. The automobile has brought harm to the environment, as well, with the pollution that comes from burning fossil fuels and the destruction of natural land for highway development.
As of 2002 there were 590 million passenger cars worldwide (roughly one car for every eleven people). Of these 140 million were in the United States. With so many vehicles on the roads, it is no wonder that there are so many accidents. This is why it is important for drivers to understand how to avoid accidents and what steps they can take to protect themselves in case an accident does occur. Drivers who have a good understanding of these safety tips will be better prepared to avoid accidents and make driving a more enjoyable experience for them and their passengers. A good place to start learning about safe driving is with a safe driving class. This will give a person the knowledge and confidence they need to be a safe and responsible driver. This knowledge and confidence will help them to avoid the most common causes of automobile accidents. Taking an effective safe driving course can also help a driver to save money on insurance premiums by reducing the likelihood of an accident.