An automobile (also called a car or motorcar) is a wheeled, self-propelled vehicle used for transportation on land. Its power is derived from an internal combustion engine using gasoline as fuel. The development of the automobile has had major implications for industry, technology and everyday life.
The first automobiles were built in the late 1800s in Germany and France by Emile Levassor and Armand Peugeot. These early autos were heavy, poorly designed and costly to produce. American manufacturers established a dominant position in the early 1900s with the invention of Henry Ford’s mass production techniques, which streamlined manufacturing and reduced costs. Ford, General Motors and Chrysler emerged as the Big Three, and by 1920 American-made cars accounted for more than half of the world’s automobiles.
OPENS UP THE WORLD
Having your own car opens up possibilities for work, recreation and travel. It allows you to visit friends and family in rural areas more easily and to make a living working from home or in another city. It also lets you escape from urban congestion and enjoy the countryside on your own terms without having to worry about schedules and public transportation.
Whether you prefer the quintessential sports car like the Mazda Miata or the practical sedan like the Toyota Corolla, there’s a great used model to suit your needs and your budget. You’ll love the freedom of owning a car that can save you time on your commute and shopping trips and that you can take advantage of to avoid traffic problems or other emergencies when you need to get somewhere fast.