In the early 20th century, Mercedes-Benz was not the unified powerhouse it is today but rather two separate entities:
Daimler Motorengesellschaft and Benz & Cia. Daimler Motorengesellschaft, founded by Gottlieb Daimler, was a leader in automotive engineering. Meanwhile, Benz & Cia was led by Carl and Bertha Benz, who are credited with creating the world’s first patent for an automobile.
A Bold Step
Before embarking on her historic journey, Bertha Benz was already a significant figure in the automotive industry. She invented brake pads and financed the development of the Benz Patent-Motorwagen, the world’s first automobilem according to EL Economista.
Despite her pivotal role, Carl Benz received most of the recognition. Bertha, however, remained determined to prove the vehicle’s practicality.
In 1888, Bertha took a bold step to showcase the vehicle's capabilities.
Without informing her husband, she set out on what is considered the first long-distance car trip. Accompanied by her children, Bertha drove from Mannheim to Pforzheim, a distance of approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles), in a journey that took 40 hours.
2.5 Horsepower Engine
The trip was fraught with challenges. At the time, gasoline was not widely available, and Bertha had to use ligroin, a petroleum derivative sold in pharmacies.
Additionally, the vehicle’s 2.5-horsepower engine struggled with hills, and mechanical issues with the transmission, brakes, and fuel system complicated the journey. Despite these obstacles, Bertha successfully completed the trip, demonstrating the vehicle’s reliability and paving the way for its commercial success.
In recognition of her pioneering spirit, the Bertha Benz Memorial Route was established in Germany, retracing her historic journey through the Black Forest. The route includes a visit to the "first gas station in the world" in Heilbronn, where Bertha purchased ligroin.
This route celebrates Bertha Benz’s contribution to the automotive industry and her role in shaping its future.
