Charles Kettering Patents the Electric Self-Starter (1911)
A major leap forward in automotive usability came when Charles F. Kettering first applied for a U.S. patent on April 17, 1911, for the electric self-starting mechanism he developed for Cadillac. An updated application would be submitted on June 15, just two months later, reflecting improvements. Before this innovation, starting a car required a hand crank—an often dangerous and physically demanding task that led to numerous injuries. Kettering’s invention eliminated the need for manual cranking, making automobiles safer, more accessible, and appealing to a broader audience. The electric starter quickly became an industry standard and remains one of the most important technological advancements in automotive history.
Ferdinand Piëch is Born, Architect of Modern Automotive Engineering (1937)
One of the most influential automotive executives of the modern era, Ferdinand Piëch, was born on April 17, 1937. A driving force behind the success of Audi and later the Volkswagen Group, Piëch was known for pushing engineering boundaries and demanding technical excellence. His leadership helped bring innovations like Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system to prominence, while his tenure at Volkswagen saw the expansion of the group into a global powerhouse. Piëch also played a key role in the revival of Bugatti, overseeing the development of the groundbreaking Bugatti Veyron, a car that redefined performance with its 1,000+ horsepower output and record-breaking speed. (Editor’s note: I wrote a script for Donut Media about Piech and the development of the Veyron. Watch it here.)
The Ford Mustang Goes on Sale and Changes the Industry (1964)
Few cars have had an impact as immediate and lasting as the Ford Mustang, which officially went on sale April 17, 1964. Developed by Ford Motor Company, the Mustang introduced a new kind of affordable, stylish performance car that quickly captured the imagination of the American public. Its long hood, short deck proportions, and wide range of options allowed buyers to personalize their cars like never before. The result was an instant success, with over 22,000 units sold on the first day alone, launching the “pony car” segment and cementing the Mustang’s place as one of the most iconic vehicles in automotive history.
