Rival Automakers Salute Mercedes-Benz on 140th Anniversary
The moment prompts reflection on how competition has shaped innovation in the shift to electric, software-led cars.
Overview
- Mercedes-Benz marks 140 years since Karl Benz’s 1886 Patent-Motorwagen, widely cited as the birth of the automobile.
- Porsche posted a heartfelt Instagram tribute citing shared Stuttgart roots, motorsport successes, collaboration on the E 500, and a belief that cars should move the heart.
- BMW joined with a cheeky message—“Luckily, Carl Benz invented the automobile, so we could invent driving pleasure”—paired with a birthday wish.
- Mercedes thanked both brands in public replies, offering a warm note to Porsche and playful banter to BMW.
- Other automakers, including Audi, Cadillac, Volvo, Xiaomi, Nio, XPeng, Geely, and Li Auto, shared birthday messages, with several appearing on Weibo.