1. Carl Benz (1885):
Carl Benz is widely regarded as the inventor of the first practical four-wheeled automobile powered by an internal combustion engine. In 1885, he created the Benz Patent-Motorwagen, which is considered the first true automobile. It had four wheels, a single-cylinder engine, and could reach a speed of 16 km/h (10 mph).
2. Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach (1886):
In the same year, Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach developed their own four-wheeled automobile, known as the Daimler Motor Carriage. It featured a four-stroke engine and innovations like a carburetor and radiator. Their contributions were significant in advancing the technology and practicality of automobiles.
3. Ransom E. Olds (1897):
Ransom E. Olds, an American engineer and industrialist, introduced the Oldsmobile Curved Dash in 1897. It was one of the first mass-produced automobiles and gained popularity for its affordability and practicality. The Oldsmobile Curved Dash had four wheels and a curved front-end design, giving it a distinctive look.
4. Henry Ford (1908):
Henry Ford revolutionized the automotive industry with the introduction of the Ford Model T in 1908. The Model T was an affordable, reliable, and mass-produced car that made automobile ownership accessible to a wider audience. It had four wheels, a simple and efficient engine, and standardized parts, which greatly influenced automotive manufacturing practices.
These individuals and their contributions played significant roles in the development and popularization of four-wheeled vehicles, paving the way for the modern era of automobiles and transportation.