Automobiles are wheeled motor vehicles that are primarily used for transportation. By definition, they are designed to seat one to eight people, run on roads, and have four wheels. In addition, they are very expensive. But what is it about these vehicles that make them so special? Here are some facts about them.
Modern automobiles are based on the internal combustion engine
Internal combustion engines use heat energy generated by fuel combustion to perform work, such as moving the wheels. They are the primary source of energy in modern automobiles. There are several types of engines, which vary in their fuel and layout.
They are made of metal
You may not realize it, but most automobiles are made of metal. Whether it is the body, engine, or wheels, your car is primarily made up of metal. While it has leather seats, safety glass windows, rubber tires, and other materials, the bulk of the car is still made from metal. The type of metal used depends on the type and model of the car.
They emit pollutants
Automobiles are a major source of pollution. They emit harmful gases into the atmosphere, and these gases can lead to respiratory and cardiovascular problems. In order to curb their emissions, car manufacturers must meet stringent European Union vehicle emissions standards, known as Euro standards. These standards apply to four different pollutants: carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, sulphur dioxide, and particulate matter. By 2015, manufacturers are required to keep the average emissions of their vehicles in Europe to 130 grams per kilometre. By 2020, they must achieve a 40 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions.
They are expensive
Automobiles are expensive, and they are not only expensive to buy, but they also cost a lot to maintain. A base-model truck starts at $35,000, while a small SUV costs close to $40,000. The price of new cars has been steadily increasing for the past decade. Some experts blame the rise in subprime auto loans, given to borrowers with credit scores under 620. While these loans are easy to get, they come at a high cost. Interest rates have increased from five percent to an average of 6.2 percent.
They are popular
Automobiles have become popular worldwide for a variety of reasons. They help people travel more efficiently and affordably. The advent of the automobile in the 1920s transformed the way we travel. Automobiles were viewed as luxury items in the beginning, but with the mass production of cars, the price fell. This was made possible by improvements in the manufacturing process.
They are made in China
Automobiles are made in China for a variety of reasons. First, they are cheap. The cost of an automobile in China is significantly lower than in the advanced economies. The National Development and Reform Commission tracks automobile prices and found that the average price of a car in China was CNY68000 (A$11000) in 2010. The low cost of labour and established models make production in China very cost-effective. The largest Chinese manufacturers are still joint ventures with foreign companies, which means that their prices remain competitive.
They are made in Germany
Automobiles made in Germany are admired the world over for their innovative technology, quality, longevity, and safety. The German automobile industry boasts over 800,000 employees and produces six million vehicles per year. Two-thirds of the industry’s turnover comes from exports, and German cars continue to enjoy an outstanding reputation abroad.