early 20th century automotive industry

The early 20th century automotive industry transformed transportation by shifting from handcrafted, luxury vehicles to mass-produced cars. Innovations like the assembly line, pioneered by Ford, drastically reduced manufacturing costs, making cars more affordable and accessible to the public. This era saw rapid technological advances, including improvements in engine design and vehicle safety. The industry grew quickly, fueling economic development and urban expansion, while also shaping modern infrastructure and lifestyle changes. Despite challenges like market fluctuations and technological hurdles, this period laid the foundation for the global automotive industry we know today.