1947 – Hyundai Begins as a Construction Company
Before it became one of the world’s largest automakers, Hyundai began life on this day in 1947 when entrepreneur Chung Ju-yung founded Hyundai Engineering & Construction in South Korea. The company rapidly expanded during Korea’s rebuilding years, eventually leading to the formation of Hyundai Motor Company in 1967. Working closely with Ford, Hyundai entered the automotive market with locally assembled versions of the Ford Cortina in 1968, laying the groundwork for a company that would later challenge established global automakers with vehicles ranging from affordable commuters to luxury EVs and high-performance models.
1950 – Chicago’s Green Hornet Trolley Disaster
One of America’s deadliest transportation tragedies unfolded on this day in 1950 when one of Chicago’s “Green Hornet” streetcars crashed into a gasoline truck, causing a devastating fire that killed dozens and injured many more. The accident involved a PCC streetcar, which had all been nicknamed the Green Hornet due to their color scheme, and took place during an era when cities still relied heavily on electric trolley systems alongside growing automobile traffic. Though not an automotive event in the traditional sense, the disaster highlighted the growing pains of mid-century transportation infrastructure as America transitioned toward increasingly car-centered cities.
1950 – The Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel Opens
New York expanded its automotive arteries on this day in 1950 with the opening of the Brooklyn–Battery Tunnel, linking Lower Manhattan to Brooklyn beneath New York Harbor. At more than 9,000 feet long, the tunnel became the longest continuous underwater vehicular tunnel in North America at the time and dramatically improved traffic flow between boroughs. Originally envisioned decades earlier, the project reflected postwar America’s growing commitment to automobile infrastructure as cars increasingly reshaped urban planning and commuting.
2004 – TVR Reveals the Sagaris and Tuscan 2
British sports car maker TVR doubled down on wild styling and unapologetically analog performance when it unveiled the TVR Sagaris and TVR Tuscan 2 on this day in 2004. Known for building brutally fast, lightweight machines without electronic driving aids, TVR catered to enthusiasts who believed sports cars should feel thrilling—even intimidating. The Sagaris in particular became famous for its dramatic vents, aggressive bodywork, and raw personality, earning cult status among fans of uncompromising British performance cars.
2021 – BMW Unveils the M4 Competition Convertible xDrive
Open-air performance took a serious leap forward on this day in 2021 when BMW announced the 2022 BMW M4 Competition Convertible xDrive. Powered by BMW’s twin-turbocharged S58 inline-six producing 503 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, the all-wheel-drive convertible sprinted from 0–60 mph in just 3.6 seconds while carrying a top speed of 155 mph—or 174 mph with the optional M Driver’s Package. Capable of revving to 7,200 rpm, the M4 Competition Convertible demonstrated just how far modern grand touring performance had evolved, blending supercar acceleration with drop-top comfort. MORE: 5 Cool Facts About BMW
