The automobile, driven by power with four or more non-track-bearing wheels, is primarily used for transporting people or goods, including towing.
At its inception, the car wasn't as we know it today, undergoing a long evolution shaped by human ingenuity and benefiting from diverse industries like petroleum, steel, aluminum, chemicals, plastics, machinery, electricity, road networks, electronics, and finance.
Since 1970, global car numbers have doubled nearly every 15 years, with a total production of 87.38 million cars in 2013.
In 1680, the prominent scientist Newton envisioned a jet-powered car using steam propulsion through nozzles, but it wasn't realized. The world's first car was successfully developed in October 1885 by German inventor Karl Benz, setting the design tone for cars.
His patent application for the invention was filed on January 29, 1886, with official approval from the German Patent Office on November 2 of the same year. Hence, January 29, 1886, is acknowledged as the birth date of the world's automobile, and Benz's patent certificate became the first car patent worldwide. Before Benz's invention, several individuals had been working on car engines and vehicles. In 1863, French periodicals reported Renault's invention of a car that traveled at less than 8 km/h, completing a round trip of 18 km between Paris and Joinville-le-Pont.
In 1884, Frenchman De Dion-Bouton utilized internal combustion engines, producing a three-wheeled car with a single-cylinder engine and a four-wheeled car with a two-cylinder engine. Numerous inventions, such as lead-acid batteries, internal combustion engine ignition systems, solid rubber tires, and spring suspensions, preceded the first car, illustrating the amalgamation of various innovations and technologies.
Common car classifications include sedans, SUVs, MPVs, sports cars, minivans, and pickup trucks, each serving distinct purposes in society.
1. Sedan: Designed for transporting passengers and their belongings, with a seating capacity of up to nine, arranged between two axles. Commonly divided into two-door and four-door categories, sharing lower vehicle heights and smaller ground clearances, often designed for five occupants.
2. SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle): Known for its sporty versatility, often available in five or seven-seat configurations. Categorized by their functionality into urban and off-road types, they generally combine car comfort with some degree of off-road capability.
3. MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle): Derived from travel cars, MPVs combine spacious passenger areas, car comfort, and van-like functionality, usually with a two-box structure accommodating seven to eight passengers.
4. Sports Car: Recognizable by their low chassis, streamlined design, and exceptional power, they are focused on pursuing speed limits.
5. Minivan (Van): Termed as microbuses or minibusses, they range from 7 to 9 seats and maintain a market due to their lower cost, maintenance, small size for parking, and large loading capacity.
6. Pickup Truck: A vehicle with a driver's cabin and an open cargo area behind, resembling the front of an SUV or sedan but featuring a small cargo compartment at the rear. Used for both passenger and freight purposes.
The automobile, as a significant product of human development, has undergone a long and illustrious journey. From its initial concept to the diverse classifications of the modern era, the progress of cars has not only altered transportation methods but also profoundly influenced societal life. Its future will continue to be driven by technology and innovation, becoming a pivotal force in shaping the future of mobility.
