A "hot rod" is a modified car, typically built for speed and performance. These vehicles often feature powerful engines, lightweight bodies, and custom designs. Hot rods originated in the United States during the 1930s and 1940s, when car enthusiasts began to enhance their vehicles for racing and personal expression. Hot rods can vary widely in style, but they often include elements like V8 engines, custom paint jobs, and chrome accents. The culture surrounding hot rods includes car shows, races, and a strong sense of community among enthusiasts who share a passion for automotive creativity and engineering.