Automotive History - Catalog - Page 6
Carl
Benz
Modern
Automobile
National Inventors Hall of FameĀ®
U.S. Patent No. 385,087
and U.S. Patent No. 386,798
Inducted in 2022
Born Nov. 25, 1844 - Died April 4, 1929
Carl Benz was inducted into
the National Inventors Hall of FameĀ®
for this U.S. Patent No. 385,087.
G
erman engineer Carl Benz revolutionized the
automotive industry by designing the first car
around an internal combustion engine, a
departure from the conventional practice of
retrofitting engines to existing vehicles.
In 1883, Benz co-founded Benz & Cie. to market a
stationary two-stroke engine, but soon redirected his
efforts towards developing a lighter engine suitable for
automobiles. By enhancing the speed and efficiency of
the four-stroke engine, Benz laid the groundwork for
his groundbreaking invention.
By 1886, Benz had constructed a gasoline-powered
three-wheeled vehicle, featuring an integrated chassis
and advanced engine design. Debuting in Mannheim in
July 1886, it boasted key components of modern
engines, achieving impressive fuel efficiency and
speed. This vehicle, considered the first practical
gasoline-powered automobile, established Benz as an
automotive pioneer, setting a new standard for vehicle
design.
In August 1888, Bertha Benz undertook a historic
long-distance journey in a Benz Model 3, generating
widespread publicity and showcasing the vehicle's
capabilities. Carl Benz subsequently showcased the
Model 3 at the Munich Engineering Exhibition,
garnering detailed press coverage.
In 1893, Benz addressed a steering issue, leading to
the debut of the Benz Victoria. By 1900, Benz & Cie.
had become the world's leading automobile
manufacturer, solidifying Carl Benz's legacy. Carl
Benz retired in 1903, with Benz & Cie. later merging
with Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft in 1926 to form
Daimler-Benz AG, ensuring the continuation of Benz's
innovative spirit in automotive history.
Reference: National Inventors Hall of Fame (2024, 29. March):
Inductee: Carl Benz Modern Automobile.
NIHF. https://www.invent.org/inductees/carl-benz