The Month of July in Automotive History
July 3, 1886: Invention of the Automobile
Karl Benz is often credited as the inventor of the automobile, as he created the first gasoline-powered auto in 1885. On July 3rd, 1886, Benz unveiled his invention to the world in Mannheim, Germany.
July 27, 1888: Electric Tricycle Demonstration
In July, the first electric tricycle is unveiled to the public by Philip W. Pratt in Boston, Massachusetts.
July 30, 1898: First Printed Car Ad
Scientific America features the first car advertisement in print, promoting the Winton Motor Car Company.
July 23, 1903: First Ford Car Sold
Ford sells its first car, the Model A. The car was sold to Dr. Ernst Pfenning of Chicago, Illinois.
July 21, 1904: First Car to Top 100 mph:
In Ostend, Belgium, Lous Rigolly achieves a speed of nearly 104 mph, becoming the first person to drive a car over 100 mph.
July 29, 1909: Buick Buys Cadillac
Buick acquires Cadillac on behalf of General Motors for nearly $5 million.
July 24, 1910: Alfa Romeo Founded
A.L.F.A. (Anonima Lombarda Fabbrica Automobili) was founded in Milan, Italy. By 1920, the company would officially be known as Alfa Romeo.
July 17, 1923: Lincoln Trademark Registered:
Ford registered the Lincoln Motorcar Company trademark.
July 31, 1928: Chrysler Acquires Dodge Brothers
For a staggering $170 million, the Dodge Brothers Company is acquired from investment bankers Dillon Read by the Chrysler Corporation.
July 12, 1933: First Dymaxion Car
Buckminster Fuller’s company Dymaxion produced the first Dymaxion car.
July 24, 2000: Fourth Generation Dodge Caravan begins
In 1994 Chrysler introduced the world to minivans and the rest is history. On July 24th, Chrysler launched its latest 4th generation minivan from the same manufacturing plant where it all began.
Here’s an older article about features we miss from days gone by. Do you miss the high beam button on the floor of your car? Check it out HERE
Here’s a link to the Antique Automobile Club of America Library & Research Center’s YouTube page for videos of past Fall Meets. Using the search feature, type Hershey Meet and you’ll find them! Check out the hair styles & clothing!