* Early pioneers: Several inventors, like Karl Benz, Gottlieb Daimler, Wilhelm Maybach, and Émile Levassor, played crucial roles in developing the internal combustion engine and its applications.
* Benz's Patent Motorwagen: In 1886, Karl Benz is generally credited with building the first gasoline-powered automobile that could be practically driven, his Patent Motorwagen.
* Daimler's engine: While Daimler didn't create a complete car, his high-speed internal combustion engine was crucial for its development.
* Collaboration and refinement: The early years of the car were marked by constant experimentation and collaboration between inventors and manufacturers.
So, while Benz is recognized for building the first working, gasoline-powered car, the invention was a collective effort involving many contributors and continuous improvement.
