50 Car Innovations We're Thankful For

Without these developments, cars would be uncomfortable, deadly, and all kinds of hassle. We salute progress.

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Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

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Cars have come a long way from the first, strange, cart-like German contraptions that were louder than all hell and slower than a brisk walk. Countless innovations have been made, and the relationship between today's Mercedes-Benz E350 and the original motorwagens that Daimler and Benz built is all but indistinguishable.

Cup Holders

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Key Fobs

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Air Conditioning

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Windshield Wipers

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Fold-Down Rear Seats

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MacPherson Suspension

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Ceramic Brakes

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Torque Vectoring

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GPS

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Double Wishbone Suspension

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Unibody Construction

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Hybrid Powertrains

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Variable Valve Timing

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Active Aerodynamics

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Head Rests

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Cruise Control

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Adaptable Suspension

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Aluminum Chassis

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Carbon Fiber

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Alloy Wheels

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Crash Test Dummies

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Audio Systems

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Diesel Engines

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Mirrors

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Overhead Camshafts

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Spoilers

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Convertibles

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Tilt/Telescopic Steering Wheels

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Collapsible Steering Columns

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Superchargers

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Turbochargers

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Computers

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Seat belts

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Differentials

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Direct Injection

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Shatter-Proof Glass

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All Wheel Drive

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Disk Brakes

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Semi-Automatic Transmissions

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Power Steering

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Traction Control

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Anti-Lock Brakes

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Airbags

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Crumple Zones

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Wind Tunnel Testing

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Independent Suspension

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Automatic Transmission

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Assembly Line

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Multiple Cylinders

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Inflatable Tires

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