Automotive industry and technology A century ago, the mass production of cars caused an explosion in the creation of businesses. First appeared the car manufacturers and their parts, then appeared a variety of businesses derived from the manufacture of cars such as parking, motels and shopping centers outside the city. The cars caused the suburbs to proliferate and the builders and landowners made fortunes. Common engines are being upgraded with modern technologies such as electronic controls, eight-speed transmissions that keep engines working in their optimum range and direct fuel injection, which allows gasoline to burn more efficiently. Combine them with proven technologies such as turbo chargers, and automakers can improve mileage and horsepower simultaneously. Advances also allow automakers to sell more power within a smaller package. The Chevy Camaro and Ford Mustang sports models offer V6 engines that generate more than 300 horsepower - a result that was once produced only