140 years of Mercedes-Benz

The history of Mercedes-Benz began in 1886 with Carl Benz’s motor car patent and Gottlieb Daimler’s motorised carriage. Since then, the brand has continuously advanced the automobile—from Bertha Benz’s pioneering 1888 long-distance journey to modern innovations in electric, autonomous, and high-performance vehicles.

In 2026, Mercedes-Benz celebrates its 140th anniversary with its largest product launch program ever, beginning with the new S-Class and followed by more than 40 models over two years. Each reflects the brand’s goal of combining heritage with innovation while redefining mobility around user needs and technological progress.

Early milestones include the 1900 Mercedes 35 hp, which established the modern automobile concept, and the 1926 merger of Benz & Cie. and Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft, creating the iconic three-pointed star brand. The company has long explored alternative propulsion, from early electric and hybrid experiments—including designs by Ferdinand Porsche—to modern EV breakthroughs like the VISION EQXX and record-setting long-range drives exceeding 1,200 km.

Mercedes-Benz has also led in performance and design, producing icons such as the 300 SL “Gullwing”, as well as pioneering engineering advances like supercharging in the 1920s. Safety innovations have been central, including crumple zones (1959), ABS (1978), and modern driver assistance systems.

Luxury and prestige models—from the “Adenauer” 300 to today’s S-Class and Maybach vehicles—have set global standards. At the same time, mass-production successes like the 124 series and early models such as the Benz Velo demonstrate the brand’s reach across segments.

Motorsport has been another pillar, with the Silver Arrows achieving major success, including multiple Formula 1 championships since 2014. Innovation continues in autonomous driving, endurance testing, and electric performance, with new technologies debuting in upcoming models.

Mercedes-Benz’s legacy also includes record-breaking achievements, highly valuable collector cars like the 300 SLR “Uhlenhaut Coupé”, and a global enthusiast community supported by clubs and heritage programs. Today, the brand continues to push boundaries in design, technology, and sustainability while building on more than a century of automotive leadership.

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Above contents © 2026 Mercedes-Benz AG reviewed and edited by Rex McAfee , @rexmcafee