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Electric Cars are the future of transportation. How did transportation evolve over the last few centuries? Learn more in this article.

Carshots | The Evolution of Transportation: From Horse Carriages to Electric VehiclesThe Evolution of Transportation: From Horse Carriages to Electric VehiclesBy CBSi Editorial Staff | June 30, 2023We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.Methods of transportation have evolved drastically over the last few centuries. Transportation changing from Horse Drawn Carriages to the technologically advanced electric cars which are growing in popularity today has been a gradual process. Motivated by a desire for faster, reliable transportation as well as environmental concerns, transportation looks drastically different today compared to a few centuries prior. Getty Images Transportation began with the creation of the wheel in 3500 BCE. The wheel was invented in Mesopotamia, and this major milestone continues to impact our lives today. The wheel allowed for all future innovations related to transportation and technology. From there, innovations such as carriages and carts were introduced to help people with daily tasks. Often, these carts and carriages were pulled by cattle and horses. Horses were an important aspect of transportation for centuries. However, a transition occurred in the late 1700s and 1800s with a rise of steam-powered engines. In 1769, the first self-propelled road vehicle was invented. It was a steam-powered carriage designed in France by Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot.Later, steam-powered locomotives were developed, and this operated on a rail system. Designed in 1804, this innovation would lead to the future of long-distance transportation. This innovation contributed to the expansion of trade and travel. In 1866, the first practical automobile was designed. An internal combustion engine allowed the automobile to function. This was the first step to the cars we drive today.In 1903, air travel was developed with the Wright brothers successfully flying the first powered and controlled airplane. The future of aviation was dependent on their findings and experiments. Now, planes fly across the world everyday due to their discovery. In 1913, cars became more common due to the Ford Motor Company developing a moving assembly line. The invention of the moving assembly line increased car production and inspired revolutionary designs that impact manufacturing today. With the development of the moving assembly line, mass production of vehicles made cars more affordable. This development led to cars being a common mode of transportation.Over the next century, car manufacturing became more efficient and advanced. More brands and companies began developing cars. Engines became more advanced and efficient. Over time, cars became a household possession. People relied on their cars as their personal mode of transportation. Commuting to work, running errands, and any other task involved using their car. With the increase in the number of cars on the road and the use of cars, environmental concerns began to rise. Usage of fuel, car emissions, and waste related to production are a few of the many environmental concerns affiliated with cars. As a result, car manufacturers began seeking more environmentally friendly car designs. In 2003, the first commercially successful hybrid vehicle, the Toyota Prius, gained popularity due to its fuel efficiency and reduced environmental damages. Hybrid models increased in popularity in the subsequent years. Around 2010, electric vehicles became popular. Companies started releasing electric models in hopes of offering more sustainable forms of transportation. Car manufacturers such as Tesla, Ford, Nissan, and Toyota continue to produce and redesign electric vehicles to make them more efficient. Electric vehicles appear to be the future of transportation. The journey from horse carriages to electric vehicles is driven by advances in technology and design. Cars will continue to become more efficient and eco-friendly as time goes on.More from carshotsauto5 things to know about buying a new or pre-owned pickup truckauto5 things to know about buying a new or pre-owned SUVautoHow to pick the best car insurance for youautoBuying a new electric car? Four things you need to know firstautoCar financing: 5 things to know about auto loan financingauto4 high-tech perks your next luxury car should have Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Do Not Sell My Personal Information | California Notice2024 CBS Interactive Inc. 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