Automobiles are powered machines that are typically four-wheeled and designed for passenger transportation. The modern automobile is an advanced technical system with thousands of parts, including electronic control units, combustion engines, transmissions, brakes, steering, and suspension. These machines have evolved from breakthroughs in existing technology to new ones, safety legislation, and competition among manufacturers worldwide. Learn the history of the automobile, its components, and how it’s made.
Etymology
The word automobile is derived from the Greek and Latin words auto and mobils. It refers to the moveable self. There are several names for different types of cars and their various structures. For example, a sedan was originally a mode of transport that was enclosed, and was drawn by horses. Today, however, the word automobile refers to any vehicle that is powered by an engine. This article will look at the etymology of automobiles.
Construction
Historically, aluminum has been used for the construction of automobiles, but today, more car-makers are turning to high-strength steel. This material offers lower weight, improved performance in critical safety parts, and increased durability, while also lowering the cost for automakers and consumers. However, the use of steel in automobile construction is not a new trend. The materials found in automobiles today are increasingly being produced with alternative sources, such as bio-based materials.
Safety
A 1995 survey of customer satisfaction found that only half of people would ask their automobile dealer for information on the safety of their vehicle. But 76 percent of respondents said they considered the issue very important and would consider contacting a federal agency if they needed more information. While safety ratings are now available, they’re not displayed next to the sticker price and are only available on the agency’s Web site. Few consumers would even think to visit this website, which might explains why only about half of them would contact the agency.
Cost
A new car can be quite expensive to produce. High-end cars like the Lamborghini and McLaren cost upwards of $200,000 or more. Manufacturers have to factor in many costs to produce each car, including raw materials, labor, and advertising charges. They must also include sales tax to determine the car’s price in the market. There are other factors that go into the cost of automobile production, including depreciation, overhead, and dealership markups.
Environmental impact
The environmental impact of automobiles can be detrimental to our environment. Thankfully, there are ways to reduce our impact on the planet. Properly maintained cars can last much longer. If people maintain their cars well, they’ll buy less new cars, reducing the impact of the car manufacturing industry. Keeping cars in good condition can also make them more efficient and energy efficient. Keep reading to learn more about the environmental impact of automobiles.
Advertising
Advertising for automobiles is becoming more effective in the modern digital marketplace. Automakers and dealers have realized the power of targeted advertising and are integrating it into their strategies to increase ROI. These strategies include leveraging transactional data gathered from e-commerce to improve pitches and to measure the effectiveness of advertising. Moreover, this type of advertising combines e-commerce data with other forms of marketing, such as PPC and social media.