While the concept of a self-propelled vehicle dates back to the 17th century, the first truly successful automobiles were steam-powered.
Here are some examples:
* Cugnot's steam-powered vehicle (1769) - This vehicle is considered the first self-propelled road vehicle, although it was very slow and impractical.
* Richard Trevithick's steam carriage (1801) - A more advanced steam carriage that could travel on roads.
* The "Puffing Devil" (1802) - A steam-powered vehicle built by William Murdoch, considered the first steam-powered carriage to operate on public roads.
Steam power was the dominant force in early automobiles, but it eventually gave way to internal combustion engines, which proved more efficient and versatile.
