Cars are one of the most common modes of transportation in the world and for good reason. They're efficient, comfortable, and easy to use. So if you're curious about the history of cars or want to know some amazing facts about them, read on! We've highlighted some fascinating information that will make you a car expert in no time. So saddle up - it's time to learn some fascinating car facts!
- The inventor of the Cruise Control feature was blind
Yes, You heard that right! Ralph Teetor, the inventor of this amazing invention, received a patent in 1950. Back then, this feature was named Speedostat. Over the years, A company called Cadillac used this feature and renamed it "Cruise Control." What is impressive about this feature is that Teetor was said to be blind! He was inspired by this idea when traveling with his lawyer, who would adjust his speed as required while maintaining his conversation with Ralph. Ralph was disturbed by this behavior and decided to do something about it. Who knew that this incident would enable us to enjoy one of the most beloved features of our cars today?
2. Robert Anderson created the first electronic vehicle (EV) around 190 years ago
With the awareness of our actions' impact on the environment increasing every day, we can see that the number of consumers of electronic vehicles has also been growing! Did you know that Robert Anderson created the first electronic vehicle (EV) 190 years ago? It was here even before the much coveted Mercedes Motorwagen! The first EV was created by a Scottish individual named Robert Anderson in 1832. It is said that Mr. Robert used non-rechargeable batteries in this endeavor, which predates the invention of lead-acid batters too! If you own an electronic vehicle today, you surely know who you should be grateful for!
3. Steering wheels weren't invented until 1894
Can you imagine driving a car without a steering wheel? Many of us cannot! It is incredible to understand that there was a time when cars didn't have steering wheels at all! So how, then, did cars navigate? It is said that individuals would guide vehicles with the help of levers. It was not until the Paris - Rouen race in 1894 that the steering wheel was sighted when Mr. Alfred Vacheron was seen driving a Panhard with a round steering wheel! Panhard then went on to equip all their models with a steering wheel by the beginning of the 1900s.
4. The first speeding ticket was issued at a speed of 13kmph
It is interesting to learn that the first speeding ticket was issued for driving at 13kmph! The speed limit back then was 3.2kmph. This speeding ticket was given to Mr. Walter Arnold, who is said to have driven his Arnold Benz Carriage at 12kmph! Mr. Walter had to appear in court for not adhering to the rules. Many years later, the Locomotives on Highways Act 1896 increased the speed limit to 23kmph.
5. The highest mileage of a car is approximately 52 lakh kilometers
Can you believe it? If you are wondering what 52 lakh kilometers is, it is shocking to note that this distance is equal to traveling the world approximately 130 times! Irvin Gordon achieved this remarkable feat by driving his Volvo P1800S. It is said that within 2 days of purchasing this vehicle, Mr. Gordon registered 2400kms. This fact became known when Mr. Irvin brought his car for its first scheduled service. Besides this, Gordon had to travel approximately 200kms to and from his home to his workplace, significantly contributing to this fascinating statistic!
By now, you have come across that the automobile sector has been instrumental in shaping our life. From the above points, we can see that cars have significantly impacted society. Innovative users will understand how crucial these fantastic machines are for their daily lives and livelihoods. Due to this, it is highly recommended that people research the history of cars and how the technology behind them evolves. Not only will they be able to manage their finances better, but they will also become more knowledgeable when buying new models in the future! As such, we cannot forget to give it tribute and respect when we see how far it has come since its inception.