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Cars have been around for more than a century, and over the years they have accumulated an amazing history and quirks.
From the first speeding ticket to the invention of cruise control, here are some of the most interesting facts about cars that you may not know.
1. The first speeding ticket
In 1896, the first speeding ticket was issued for a car traveling only eight miles per hour, which at the time was four times the legal speed limit. It’s hard to imagine now, but back then the speed limits were extremely low, and even a bicycle could chase a car that was going too fast!
2. Cruise control was invented by a blind engineer
Ralph Teetor, who lost his sight at the age of five, was the brains behind cruise control. Frustrated with his lawyer’s inconsistent driving speeds, Teetor developed the technology to maintain a constant speed. His invention laid the foundation for future innovations such as GPS navigation and autonomous driving systems.
3. Windshield wipers were invented by a woman
Mary Anderson invented the first manual windshield wipers in 1903 after noticing how difficult and dangerous it was to drive in bad weather with poor visibility. Thanks to her, driving in the rain and snow became much safer.
4. 95% of a car’s life is spent parked
Believe it or not, only 5% of your car’s lifespan is spent on the road. The rest of the time it is parked in a garage, in a parking lot, or idle on the street. So it’s worth making sure your car is parked in a safe place!
5. Formula 1 cars can drive upside down
Formula 1 cars are so aerodynamic that they can generate enough downforce to drive upside down in a tunnel at a speed of 190 kilometers per hour. While it sounds like something out of a movie, it’s a real feat of engineering, but not something to try in your everyday car.
6. The fastest car in the world
The fastest car in the world is currently the Koenigsegg Gemera, which can reach speeds of up to 400 kilometers per hour. When it comes to electric cars, the 2022 Tesla Model S Plaid is the leader, with a top speed of 200 miles per hour.
7. The largest speeding fine in history
A Swiss driver was handed a huge speeding fine of £180,000 (S$294,601) after he was caught doing 137km/h in an 80km/h zone. In Switzerland, fines are based on income, so this driver’s wealth made the fine particularly high!
8. Cars consist of 30,000 parts
Your car is a complex machine, with approximately 30,000 parts working together to keep it running smoothly. From the engine to the brake pads, every part plays a crucial role in keeping your car safe and functional.
9. Drive to the moon? Almost!
If there was a road to the moon, it would take about six months to drive there, assuming you could travel non-stop. While this is purely hypothetical, it’s fun to imagine what kind of car you’ll need for such a long road trip!
10. Dubai has the fastest police cars
Dubai Police is known for its luxurious and powerful fleet, including the Bugatti Veyron, which can reach speeds of up to 400 kilometers per hour. He holds the record for the fastest police car in the world.
These incredible facts only scratch the surface of the rich history and innovation that surrounds the automotive industry. From safety inventions to record speeds: cars continue to fascinate and inspire.
Image Via Youtube
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