When Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot invented the first automobile in 1768 he had no idea that it would grow to the magnitude in which it is today. The automotive industry has been thriving for decades, raising the bar each year on luxury and car performance. The first automobile was powered by steam; it would be nearly thirty years later before the first internal combustion engine powered automobile was introduced.
Then in 1886 Karl Benz created the first gasoline-powered vehicle. Although he went through several prototypes of automobiles within his lifetime, he created the foundation for the vehicles we drive today. His ingenuity paved the road for concepts such as the electric car and the vehicles that burn fuel alternatives.
It is important that we recognize the achievements of those who paved the way for the amazing automobiles that are designed today. Consider how vehicles have evolved from a steam engine in 1768 to a luxury automobile such as a 2016 Range Rover. New concept cars are being designed at a rapid pace as automobile makers struggle to compete with each other in a buyer’s market.
Understanding the history of automobiles brings with it a sense of appreciation for their background and evolution process from 1768 to the present day. Car clubs, racing groups, and avid car collectors all share the same appreciation and admiration for automobiles. Some spend thousands of dollars each year in their prized collector automobiles or their automotive hobbies.
In celebration of all things automotive, below are automotive history facts for the month of June.
June is the perfect month for outdoor automotive events such as car shows and racing. It is also a great month in automotive history. On June 4, 1896 Henry Ford introduced the world to his Quadricycle. He tested the Quadricycle, which proved to be quite successful. This was the first four-wheel self-propelled vehicle.
Porsche lovers would be surprised to know that the prototype of the two-seated luxury mobile was first tested on June 8, 1948. It was known as the Porsche 356-1. Dr. Ferdinand Porsche tested the prototype himself near a sawmill in Gmund, Austria.
June 9, 1909, four women departed Manhattan on a 59-hour trip to San Francisco. These four women, led by Alice Huyler Ramsey a 22-year old mother and wife, made automotive history when they completed their trip. They were known as the first women motorists to cross North America.
On June 10, 1947 the Swedish aerospace and defense company Saab, introduced their Model 92 vehicle. The Model 92 automobile included a three-cylinder engine and was described as an airplane without wings.
