Automobiles are as American as apple pie. The country has a rich history of automobile manufacturing, racing, road trips, and more. Learn more about why cars are an integral part of American history and culture with these facts.
Six American Automobile Facts
1. The U.S perfected mass production with the automobile. (Source)
The assembly line technique, used in factories worldwide, was perfected during the production of automobiles. Ford’s Model T was the first mass-produced automobile and sold for $825.
2. The first American car was produced by bicycle mechanics. (Source)
Charles Duryea and J. Frank designed the first gasoline-powered American automobile. They were bicycle mechanics, and their origins are evident in the design of the Duryea Motor Carriage. The Duryea Motor Carriage was designed in Springfield, Massachusetts, and went on sale in 1896.
3. The 1912 Cadillac eliminated hand-crank engines. (Source)
Before the Cadillac’s debut, automobile owners had to start their engines with a difficult and dangerous hand-crank procedure. Hand-cranked engines had a tendency to backfire, causing injuries and even death. The 1912 Cadillac made this method a thing of the past with its electric engine start that made driving a lot safer and more convenient.
4. The popular Chevy Corvette line skipped its 1983 release. (Source)
The Corvette is an incredibly popular muscle car and American classic. It was especially sought after in the 80s, so why did Chevrolet skip a new model release in 1983? No one knows for sure, but rumor has it that the newly tightened emissions standards necessitated a redesign of the car. Others believe the factor had quality issues. All we know for certain is that all models were destroyed except for a lone white 1983 Corvette housed at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
5. California hosts more car shows than any other state. (Source)
California is a paradise for car show enthusiasts. You can find many of the classic and historic cars mentioned here featured in classic car shows throughout California. Monterey Car Week alone is jam-packed with automobile events. The week features events showcasing classic race cars, markets for automobile memorabilia collectors, events for specific brands, classic car showcases, and rare and historic antique vehicles. The Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance is especially popular as it showcases the world’s most luxurious cars traveling in a caravan along the scenic ocean route, Highway 1.
6. Automobiles created an American economic revolution. (Source)
The invention of the mass-produced automobile spurred the development of many other industries and initiatives. Highways were constructed across the country as part of a major infrastructure initiative. Gas stations sprang up all around the country, and motels became popular roadside stops for automobile travelers. The diner, featuring what’s considered classic American food, was developed to provide quick roadside meals for weary travelers. While Europe focused on developing mass transit, Americans focused on independent automobile infrastructure. We can see how integral cars are to American culture by tracing the country’s main highways.
Featured image by Michael Kauer from Pixabay.
