America's Love Of Drive-thrus : 1A : NPR

Drive-thrus are a quintessentially American phenomenon. The first was in the U.S. and they spread quickly nationwide in the mid-20th century due to the rise of car culture and the highway system.Now, estimates suggest there are around 200,000 drive-thrus across the country. They grew in popularity during the pandemic. Drive-thrus have a history of innovation. Fast food companies are experimenting with new technology at their fast food windows, like AI chatbots or elevator food delivery systems that cut out human-to-human interaction.Drive-thrus also offer more than just fast food. Drive-thru funeral homes, banks, and convenience stores save people the step of getting out of their cars.We discuss the history and future of America's drive-thrus.Want to support 1A? Give to your local public radio station and subscribe to this podcast. Have questions? Find out how to connect with us by visiting our website.

PEOPLE's 100 Reasons to Love America in 2021

Plugged In: How The IRA Is Changing Housing In America : 1A : NPR

NPR's WHYY has lost at least half its journalists. Many complain about pay and lack of innovation

Ken Burns on His Latest Documentary 'The American Buffalo

Many Americans Prefer Stores With Drive-Thrus

Joe Biden's Gone to the U.S.-Mexico Border. What For? : 1A : NPR

America's Love Of Drive-thrus : 1A : NPR

The complicated history of McDonald's and Black America - Marketplace

Drive-thru flu shots help Del. prep for larger public health crises - WHYY

Fast food - Wikipedia

The Midwest Tornadoes, Climate Change, And The Future Of Extreme Weather : 1A : NPR

Remaking America: Recovery High Schools And Teens Facing Addiction : 1A : NPR