Automobiles (or automobile) are a type of vehicle used for transporting people. They are large vehicles with four wheels that run on roads and can seat one to eight passengers.

The first automobile was built in 1885 by Karl Benz of Germany. His invention included the Otto cycle petrol engine, an accelerator for speed regulation, a battery ignition system, spark plug, a clutch and gear shift, and a radiator for cooling the engine.

During the twentieth century, cars became widely available and began replacing horse-drawn carriages. They were inexpensive to buy and were accessible to the middle class.

Cars gave Americans access to jobs, houses, and services. They also helped them build highways and related industries.

Today, automobiles are an essential part of the world’s economy. They provide a safe way to travel and are popular alternatives to public transit.

Modern vehicles are complex technical systems comprised of thousands of component parts that work together to perform a specific function. The major subsystems include body, chassis, engine, drivetrain, control systems and emission-control systems.

Automobiles are used for passenger transportation, as well as for industrial use such as metal stamping, pressworking, printing, and packing machines. They can be powered by an internal combustion engine, a gas turbine, or an electric motor.

Many of the world’s luxury cars are large traditional limousine saloons, with a couple of oversized hatchbacks and demure SUVs to round out the package. They need to offer outstanding comfort both in the front and back seats, a silky-smooth ride, excellent drivability and refinement, as well as performance.