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History of Automobiles

What are automobiles and when were they first introduced?

Steam Car. Image provided by ncpedia.

Without cars, also known as automobiles, we would’ve walked everywhere until now. Due to the advancement in technology in history, we are able to travel long distances easily. Then, who made cars and thought of these ideas?


The first car, which was invented in 1770, was made by a person named Nicolas Joseph Cungnot. It wasn’t actually classified as a ‘car’ since it was a steam wagon style. Based on this idea, the first gasoline-running car was invented by Carl Benz in 1886. The word Benz might’ve been heard from car brands. Yes, it is actually a popular car brand which has originated from Carl Benz, and is still being used and released today.

During the 19th century, innovations such as hand brakes, speed transmissions, and steering developed. Then, the idea of steam-powered vehicles was imagined. These vehicles were early invented, but then faced obstacles, such as technical limitations and people’s denials. The UK passed the Locomotives Act of 1865 eventually, which was a law that made self-propelled cars into driving cars. This enhanced safety and mobility since cars weren't only used for transportation. They were also used for traveling distances.


In the 20th century, steam-powered vehicles reached their peaks. When lightweight boilers that could generate steam rapidly were introduced with other nice designs, massive usage of steam-powered cars were used. Also, internal engines went through significant advancements during WWI. Around 1930, high-speed diesel engines showed up. This enlightened the UK’s technology, making better cars than steam-powered cars.

As time passes, more and more cars will start to innovate, so much that we could not predict the future. Electric automobiles are now being introduced, and our next goal is flying cars. Human advancement of technology cannot be chased, and is ready to be advanced any second.

@2024 International Review in STEM (IRIS)

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