The Benz Patent-Motorwagen is widely recognized as the first true automobile powered by an internal combustion engine. Designed by Karl Benz in 1885, it featured a simple, three-wheeled structure and a single-cylinder four-stroke engine. The vehicle was patented in 1886, marking a significant milestone in automotive history. The Motorwagen had a top speed of about 10 miles per hour and was made primarily of steel and wood. Its innovative design laid the groundwork for future automobiles, influencing the development of the automotive industry and leading to the establishment of Mercedes-Benz, a brand that remains prominent today.