Automania

More than 100 years ago, the inseparable relationship between humankind and automobiles began. But will this love turn into "autophobia"?

At first, only the rich and aristocratic could afford the expensive invention, but the car quickly became the object of desire for increasing numbers of people. It promises its owner not only mobility, but also speed, status, and freedom. It has become an icon of technological progress and a symbol of individual prosperity. How did the automobile conquer the heart the people? What are the milestones of its development? Why has the former blissful dream turned into a love-hate relationship for many today? It is well known that cars are polluters and partly responsible for climate change. Could this mean that the “automaniac” of the 20th century will turn into “autophobia” in the future?