The Automobile: A Journey of Innovation and Success from Its Origins to Today

In the distant year 1886, an unprecedented innovation stood out in the landscape of human inventions: the world's first automobile. Weighing only 360 kg, equipped with two gears, a wooden brake on the rear wheel, and a modest single-cylinder engine of 0.8 horsepower powered by ligroin. This revolutionary creation, called the Patent-Motorwagen, was the masterpiece of Carl Benz, and together with his future partner, Gottlieb Daimler, it would change history, leaving an indelible mark not only in transportation but in the very fabric of human history. In 2011, official recognition came with the inclusion of the patent in the UNESCO World Documentary Heritage.

Bertha Benz's Brave Journey

The Patent-Motorwagen, however, reached the peak of its popularity thanks to the daring actions of a woman, Bertha Benz. In 1888, Bertha demonstrated the reliability of the car by driving it at dawn one August day for almost 90 km from Mannheim to Pforzheim, unbeknownst to her husband Carl. This audacious journey captured the public's imagination, making Benz's invention increasingly known and appreciated.

The Beginning of the Myth: Daimler and Benz

While Benz continued to innovate, another engineering giant, Gottlieb Daimler, made his entrance into the world of automobiles. In 1890, he founded the "Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft" after significant experiments with the internal combustion engine. Before World War I, despite competition, Benz and Daimler established themselves as leaders. After the war, united by the need to face the economic crisis, the two companies merged in 1926, giving rise to Daimler-Benz AG.

The Birth of the Name "Mercedes"

Emil Jellinek, a Viennese consul and racing enthusiast, was one of the earliest admirers of Daimler's cars. In 1898, he became a dealer of Daimler cars and participated in races under the pseudonym "Monsieur Mercédès," inspired by his daughter's name. Gottlieb Daimler, impressed by Jellinek's exploits, decided to name his cars "Mercedes."

The Evolution of the Logo: The Star

With the merger of the world's two oldest automakers, the distinctive brand was born: the three-pointed star, symbolizing the ambition to excel on land, in the sky, and at sea. Surrounded by a laurel wreath, this star frames the names "Mercedes" and "Benz."

Over 50 Years of Excellence in Italy

Mercedes-Benz Italy, with over 50 years of history, represents the brands of the Stuttgart-based company in our country. With a network of 55 dealerships and over 400 employees, it is the hub of Italian business for Mercedes-Benz Cars and Mercedes-Benz Vans. The product portfolio includes the brands Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG, Mercedes-Maybach, G-Class, Mercedes me, smart, and EQ, dedicated to electric mobility.

Capena Logistics Center: Sustainability in Action

The Mercedes-Benz Logistic Center in Capena, an example of sustainable business, covers 30% of its energy needs with 1,400 solar panels. With over 110 employees, it has become crucial in supplying spare parts in Europe and has established itself as the first CO2 Neutral facility in Europe. An excellence that attests to Mercedes-Benz's constant commitment to sustainability.