Final answer:
Henry Ford revolutionized the automotive industry by perfecting mass production through the assembly line, which made the Model T affordable for many Americans and significantly increased the number of automobiles on the road.
Step-by-step explanation:
Henry Ford's Innovation in the Automotive Industry
Henry Ford's major innovation that boosted the automotive industry was the perfection of mass production through the use of the assembly line. This method greatly increased efficiency and reduced costs, allowing automobiles to be manufactured at a rate and price that made them accessible to the average American. Ford's Model T, introduced in 1908, epitomized this innovation by dramatically dropping in price from $850 to $300 by 1924. The adoption of the assembly line in Ford's factories meant that workers performed repetitive tasks, which simplified the production process. These efficiencies enabled Ford to produce the Model T in record time, transforming the automobile from a luxury item into a staple of American life. By 1929, over twenty-three million automobiles navigated American roads, reflecting the profound impact of Ford's innovation on the industry and society.
Moreover, the assembly line jobs created by Ford's factories attracted millions of workers to Detroit, sparking a significant population shift and altering the economic landscape. Ford's methodology became a cornerstone of modern manufacturing practices, heralding a new era of industrialization and consumerism.