Karl Benz: In 1886, Karl Benz invented the world’s first true automobile powered by a gasoline engine, called the Benz Patent Motorwagen.
Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach: Around the same time, Daimler and Maybach developed their own gasoline-powered engines and vehicles.
In 1926, the companies founded by Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler merged to form Mercedes-Benz.
The name “Mercedes” came from Mercedes Jellinek, the daughter of Emil Jellinek, a wealthy businessman and automobile dealer who was instrumental in promoting Daimler cars. The name soon became synonymous with luxury and innovation.
Over the decades, Mercedes-Benz has introduced many automotive milestones:
1930s: Produced some of the most luxurious and technically advanced cars of the era.
1950s–60s: Introduced iconic models like the 300 SL “Gullwing”, famous for its distinctive doors.
1970s–80s: Became a leader in safety innovations, introducing features like ABS, airbags, and crumple zones.