The brand name Daimler has been identified as a German and a US brand because through the years, it has been known as part of the DaimlerChrysler group. But did you know that it is a misconception? Daimler as a car brand as a car manufacturing company originated in the United Kingdom as was the mark of British luxury car assembly in the end of the 19th century and the early years of the 20th century.
Daimler was originally made by the UK-based Daimler Motor Company, which was based in Coventry. The first cars of the brand were designed and assembled by German car engineer Gottlieb Daimler, who was able to register a patent of the design in the years before the 20th century. As a vehicle maker, Daimler was credited as the manufacturer of the first motorcycle in the year 1885. The feat was remarkably repeated when Daimler made the first ever four-wheeled auto in 1889.
Gottlieb Daimler at the height of his popularity moved to sell licenses for the use of the Daimler trade name to many countries. When he died in 1900, some confusions of the use of the name arose. The French franchise owner used Daimler to create a company that included in the French brand the name of its owner's daughter, Mercedes. Thus, the name Mercedes was carried by all cars made by Daimler Motors Company since then.
In 1924, the company was merged with Germany's Benz & Cie which resulted to the formation of Daimler-Benz, which then made all Mercedes-Benz cars. The combination of the brands lasted until the company acquired United States-based Chrysler Corporation in 1998. The merger was so huge for both brands that the combined entity has been known as DaimlerChrysler.
Prior to DaimlerChrysler, Daimler was also associated with luxury car maker Jaguar and then by Ford Motor Company in 1989. From there, the merger of Daimler and Chrysler brands was provided a springboard.
Daimler is basically known for the unique and amazing features of its cars. Generally, the brand has always been associated with luxury types of vehicles. The exterior is so exquisite and was directly and equally complemented by the high-performance interiors and engines. It is no wonder that famous celebrities, including the Beatles and the Queen Mother, preferred to have Daimler as their symbolic cars. Even the hearse of the late Princess Diana saw no other brand but Daimler.
Daimler cars were also stars, and were featured and used in several British movies and television series especially during the 1960s. Baby boomers would also tell tales of encounters with elegantly clad British police cars using Daimler cars during the period.
Currently, Daimler is known for its sole existing superior model known as the Super Eight. The car model is a fusion of the tried and tested Daimler features plus the luxurious characteristics of a Jaguar. Now that Daimler is again on its own, expect that the brand will revive itself to continue making waves that will rock the global car industry.
Original Authors: Manny
Edit Update Authors: M.A.Harris
Updated On: 10/06/2008
