April 11, 2025
By Alexandra Lourenço and Debra Ogunbowale
Editor-in-Chief and Webmaster
This timeline is part of a four-part in-depth reporting project about cars.
1886: Birth of the automobile
On Jan. 29, 1886 German inventor Karl Benz submitted a patent for his motor car, the Benz Patent-Motorwagen. This invention revolutionized transportation and shaped the modern automobile industry.
1911: Indianapolis 500
The first Indianapolis 500 took place on May 30, 1911, at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Named after the 500-mile-long course, drivers completed 200 laps around the track with winner Ray Harroun finishing in 6 hours, 42 minutes, 8 seconds.
1945: Post-war boom
Following World War II, new highways spurred economic growth, which increased car production and availability. Cars became a symbol of status representing freedom and opportunity.
1950: Introduction of Formula One
Marking the start of the F1 series, the first Formula One World Championship consisted of seven races that took place between May 13-Sept. 3, 1950. Italian driver Giuseppe Farina, who competed for the car manufacturer Alfa Romeo, won the World Championship.
2008: Rise of electric vehicles
EVs gained momentum around 2008 after the Tesla Roadster launched. The vehicle showcased high-performance electric power and was the first mass-market car to use a lithium-ion battery.
2014: Formula E racing
Debuting in 2014, Formula E was created to accelerate electric cars and their sustainability. Since then, Formula E has been the first global sport to be certified with a net-zero carbon footprint.
SOURCES: ABB Formula E, Federal Highway Administration, Formula One, Mercedes-Benz Group, Quartr, Roadtrips.com and the U.S. Department of State / CANVA STOCK IMAGES
