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550 BCE
Wind Chariots
A wind chariot capable of carrying thirty passengers and covering hundreds of li in a single day was mentioned by Emperor Yuan of Liang in the Book of the Golden Hall Master (《金楼子》), which was written during the Southern and Northern dynasties (420-589). -
1335
Wind Car
A number of Italians documented wind-powered vehicle concepts. In 1335, Guido da Vigevano became the first. It was a windmill-style drive to wheels using gears. -
1418
Fontana's Human-Powered Land Vehicle
Giovanni Fontana built the first land vehicle propelled by human power in 1418. Fontana constructed a four-wheeled vehicle with gears connecting the rope. -
1470
Automobile
Francesco di Giorgio Martini designed a car that was powered by four capstans, one for each wheel. It also featured a steering wheel. Di Giorgio Martini referred to his creation as an "automobile," likely making this the earliest known use of the term for something resembling a modern car.