[I~LUV~Caddys8792]

Here's a list of innovative automotive patents that Mercedes has made throughout the years.

1886: The Automobile
1911: The first multivalve engine
1921: The Supercharged engine
1931: Independent Suspension
1936: First Diesel passenger car
1951: The Crumple Zone
1954: Fuel Injection
1971: Air Bag
1981: Emergency Seat belt tensioning device
1982: Multilink rear suspension
1985: Electronic Traction Control
1989: Pop-up Roll Bar
1995: Electronic Stability Program
1997: Brake Assist
1997: Smart Key
1997: Touch Start
1998: Head Protection Curtains
1999: Active Body Control
1999: Climate controlled seat-belt usage sensors
1999: Airmatic semi-active suspension
2000: Distronic adaptive cruise control
2001: Keyless Go
2002: Drive-Dynamic front seats (side bolsters inflate under hard cornering)
2002: Pre-Safe
2003: 7 Speed Automatic Transmission

Source: 2005 Mercedes-Benz full line brochure.