The Patel Model 3 Automobile

[Thadeus Laing]

The automobile has had a fine history in Montauk, starting with the importation
of the earliest prototypes from Shirekeep to Montauk for the use of the island's
wealthiest citizenry. These early automobiles typically ran on, chiefly, steam and
electricity, and, sometimes, petrol. Montauk, being a highly populated trade
center and urban area, eventually had more automobiles than the mainland of
Shireroth. These early automobiles would frequently break down and were costly
to maintain and repair however. The times called for a better automobile.

Through the genius of inventor and industrialist Henri Patel, and his use of division
of labor, interchangeable parts, and assembly lines, Montauk received the better
automobile it needed: the legendary Model III Patel. It only ran on petrol. It
was not perfect. For example, it had low economy with regards to the petrol fuel
that it took. Also, the constant motion of the cylinders in the engine caused the
vehicle to shake loudly and uncomfortably. However, it outsold every prior petrol
automobile in Montauk. (Note: At this time, only those of the Brahmanas and Satrias
castes who cared for such modernity and convenience and those of the Wesias caste who
could afford a car were able to afford the very high price of petrol and the personal
mechanic--usually a tinkerer from the Sudras caste--which was needed for its operation.)
Montauk finally had its better automobile.