Since 1902, Cadillac has been paving the way for automotive companies worldwide. The founder, Henry M. Leland, was undoubtedly a man ahead of his time when it came to automobile innovation, technology, and style. The world-famous brand, as a whole, is truly one of a kind, and it has come a long way since its first vehicle, which sold in 1903 for $850.
Surprisingly, there’s a lot of information about the company that many do not know. In this article, we will share, in our opinion, the most fascinating facts about America’s first luxury car brand.
Cadillac is one of the oldest vehicle manufacturers in the world
In 1902, the Henry Ford Company ceased operation after a disagreement with investors. At the time, Henry M. Leland was the co-owner of the company. Unhappy with the thought of losing the company, he convinced investors to abandon the idea. Instead, he asked that they combine Henry Ford’s latest frame design with a single-cylinder Oldsmobile engine. Thus, Cadillac was born.
The brand was named after Antoine Laumet de la Mothe Cadillac, a French explorer and the founder of Detroit, Michigan. After a year of production, the first Cadillac sold at the New Year Auto Show for $850.
The brand spearheaded precision tuning
If you look at the history of Cadillac overall, it’s apparent that Leland was quite the innovator. He strived for perfection and was continuously pushing the limits of the status quo. This drive for excellence led to what was known as “the most precise factory in the world.” The company was so good at operations that they received the Dewar Trophy and the first-ever Car of the Year Award.
Cadillac was the first brand to use an electric starter
The first vehicles on the market required hand-cranking to start. This, along with a personal experience, inspired Henry Leland to create the first electric starter. A decade after Cadillac’s first appearance in 1903, the first electric starter appeared. This innovation changed the automotive industry for good. Today, all vehicles are made with an electric starter.
They were the inventors of many “firsts”
Over the years, Cadillac has introduced several inventions, becoming known as the “inventors of firsts.” For example, in 1908, three Royal Automotive Club engineers dissembled three Cadillac vehicles, exchanged parts, and reassembled the cars. Not only did they operate perfectly after this process, but they drove for 500 miles without seeing any issue. This won the manufacturer the prestigious Dewar Trophy for interchangeable parts and the reputation for being unlike any other automobile creator. In 1912, the company introduced the electric starter and introduced electric-powered headlights for their automobiles. This invention earned them yet another Dewar Trophy.
Cadillac is the only manufacturer to have MagneRide
Driving a Cadillac is like driving on a cloud. The smooth and precise handling is all thanks to the company’s newest technology, MagneRide. This shock-absorbing technology works by using magnetic fluid and an electromagnetic piston. The fluid helps the piston slide effortlessly and combines with sensors to adjust the vehicle’s suspension based on road conditions.
A brand to the stars
When you have a reputation for being one of a kind and innovative, word spreads fast, leaving everyone wanting to experience greatness. In their earlier years, Cadillac became the only automobile manufacturer for people of notoriety, such as Al Capone, Elvis, and several Presidents. These vehicles were fitted with exclusive features, such as bulletproof glass and exterior panels, bombproof underplates, custom paint jobs, and more.
Why Choose Five Star Cadillac of Warner Robins?
We are here to provide you with premium services. We offer a diverse collection of Cadillacs, so you can be assured that your perfect vehicle is waiting for you on our lot! Shop our online inventory, value your trade online, and schedule your test drive delivery at the most recommended Cadillac dealership in the Warner Robins area!
