What Is a Car?
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A car, also known as an automobile, is a wheeled motor vehicle that is designed to carry one or more people and operate on roads. It typically has four wheels, a body that is shaped like a passenger compartment, an engine that powers the car and a chassis.
Most cars are powered by an internal combustion engine that uses gasoline (petrol) or diesel fuel to burn and generate electricity. The power generated by the engine is used to move the wheels and to power other systems in the car. The gasoline or diesel fuel is supplied to the engine by a gas or diesel tank. A muffler reduces the noise produced by the burning fuel. The exhaust gases are then released through the tail pipe.
The engine and other parts in the car are connected by a driveshaft, which carries rotary power from the engine to the axles that drive the wheels. The wheels are driven by the axles using a differential, which allows the outer wheels to turn at different speeds during turns and over bumps on the road. The steering system controls the front wheels and, when turned, point them to the left or right. The brakes slow the car when the driver presses on the brake pedal.
Millions of people around the world use cars as their primary mode of transportation. They give people the freedom to travel long distances and take vacations. They provide many jobs in factories that make the cars, at gas stations and restaurants where travelers stop, and in hotels and motels that offer accommodations to travelers. Cars, however, have serious drawbacks, including the millions of people killed in traffic accidents and the pollution they cause.
Modern cars are very complicated machines and all the parts work together to make them run properly. The basic parts include the engine, wheels and axles, transmission, and brakes. The engine produces the power to move the car and to power other systems, such as lights and electrical devices. The wheels and axles are made of steel or plastic and are mounted on a frame that is supported by the chassis. The tires are attached to the wheels and, when inflated, keep the car on the road.
The first thing that most people notice about a car is its shape. This is called its body style and is the easiest way to categorize a vehicle. It can be tall and boxy, sleek and low, or something in between. The body can have two doors, four doors or even a hatchback.
Cars are designed to be safe for passengers, and most have safety features such as air bags, seat belts and child seats. Passengers are required to fasten their seat belts before driving on the highway or in busy cities, and they must wear helmets if they are riding motorcycles. In some countries, it is illegal to drive without a seat belt or helmet. Many cars have heaters to help keep the passengers comfortable, and some have electric windows and seats that move automatically. Some have navigation systems that tell drivers where they are going and can give information about the environment such as traffic conditions.