The development of automobiles in the United States can be traced to several factors. The country was more prosperous and had a more equal income distribution than Europe, which made automotive transportation more affordable and accessible to many people. Moreover, the country’s manufacturing tradition allowed for lower car prices, and its absence of tariff barriers encouraged the sale of cars over a wide area. In addition, cheap raw materials and skilled labor made it possible for automakers to automate processes.
Changes in American society
The automobile has had an incredible impact on American society. It has changed the way people live and the way that businesses operate. It was also a great way to explore the countryside. The car’s mass production has also influenced the advancement of the economy. While the car has influenced all aspects of society, it has also had its downsides.
Changes in landscape
The changing landscape is a challenge for automotive companies. Fortunately, there are several ways to adapt and gain an edge. These strategies include reimagining operations and shifting to digital channels, adopting zero-based budgeting, optimizing asset deployment, and building resilient supply chains. To be effective, these strategies must be implemented in a timely manner.
Changes in technology
Changes in technology are changing the automobile industry. The original cars of the 1800s and 1900s are being transformed into new and better versions of themselves. The vehicles of the future will be far different from today’s models. Automakers must adjust their business models and operations to cope with this change. They also need to develop new products faster.
Changes in safety design
In the 1930s, auto manufacturers were actively lobbying for changes in automobile safety design. As a result, many automakers began to install four-wheel brakes and shatterproof windshields. The news media began to focus on the gruesome consequences of traffic accidents and made it a point to increase the safety of automobiles. Yet, until the introduction of seat belts and energy-absorbing steering columns, many car models did not incorporate the advanced features that today’s automobiles have.
Impact on animals
Across the United States, more than a million animals are killed each year by automobile crashes. These collisions are the leading cause of death for many vertebrate species. Additionally, roadways fragment wildlife habitats and subdivide animal populations. As a result, many woodland creatures are deprived of the ability to reproduce and survive in their natural habitat.
Impact on plants
The production of automobiles has an enormous impact on the environment. They require huge amounts of mechanical power and human labor and produce copious amounts of waste. Experts estimate that by 1980, two million people were directly involved in the production of automobiles and three million were involved in producing car components. Approximately twenty million people worldwide depend on motorized vehicles for their livelihood. Automobile manufacturing also consumes enormous amounts of energy and raw materials.