What was the core principle behind Benz's early automobile?
The central idea was to harness the power of a gasoline-fueled internal combustion engine and reliably transmit that force to the wheels. It was a matter of mechanics, plain and simple. We had to ensure efficient ignition of the fuel-air mixture, a robust crankshaft and connecting rod system to convert linear motion to rotational force, and a reliable drive mechanism. The engine itself, a single-cylinder, four-stroke design, was optimized for the weight and intended use of the vehicle. The objective was always a functional, reliable self-mover.