Automobiles and Motorcycles
Automobiles are vehicles that are designed to transport passengers and goods, usually on two or four wheels. These vehicles also use fuel, which can be diesel, gasoline, or ethanol. Modern automobiles are complex technical systems that require thousands of component parts. They also require sophisticated controls and safety systems.
Automobiles are the main means of transportation in the United States. Today, the US has one of the largest markets in the world for passenger cars. About 70 million new passenger cars are manufactured each year. One-quarter of these vehicles are imported. The US has a tradition of low automobile prices, which has benefited middle-class families. Its manufacturing industry has also contributed to the increased demand for automobiles in the United States.
Vehicles are classified into different types based on their design and purpose. Usually, cars are four-wheeled vehicles with seats for two or three people, whereas motorcycles are three-wheeled machines with limited seating capacity. Motorcycles are often used for commuting, sport, or off-road riding. There are many different types of motorbikes.
Automobiles have evolved from bicycle-like contraptions that were developed in the mid-Victorian era by Ernest Michaux of France. Sylvester Howard Roper of the United States invented a similar device in 1867. Throughout the 19th century, manufacturers of bicycles and cars began to improve on the designs of their products. Some of the improvements included: improved control systems, safety systems, emission control, and chassis.
During the early part of the 20th century, the invention of the internal combustion engine marked a big leap in automotive technology. Holley and his brother Earl obtained a license to produce a Longuemare carburetor in Paris.
As the automobiles became more sophisticated, more inventors devoted themselves to designing better motorcycles. By the end of the century, more than five thousand companies worldwide were producing motorcycles. In the United States, Charles Metz built the first production motorcycle in 1898 in Waltham, Massachusetts.
In the early 1990s, Honda’s American Honda Motor Company began producing motorcycles. However, Honda’s motorcycle production was still limited to light models. Honda now produces both automobiles and motorcycles. This is a key segment of Honda’s business.
Honda has a strong foothold in Brazil and Africa, and is targeting other parts of Latin America and ASEAN. However, the company has not yet made any major moves in those regions. Having said that, Honda management has stated that these markets are becoming more mature. While these countries are not likely to see significant demand for passenger vehicles in the near future, the company’s focus is on emerging India and Latin America.
Honda’s vision is to deliver advanced technology to all people. With this goal in mind, the company is pursuing motorcycles that are designed to offer high performance, and to share the pleasure of motorcycle riding with others. Honda will also display its Formula One racers, and the RC211V mountain bike, which is used in downhill racing.
Automotive manufacturers continue to improve their products with new technology and innovations. Many manufacturers now employ research and development engineers. Their goal is to create improved safety and control systems, as well as improve the chassis, body, and engine.