This Week in Automotive History: Dec. 31-Jan. 6

Dec. 31, 1871

First Daimler Two-Stroke Runs: Richard Tevithick introduces his “Puffing Devil” steam-powered vehicle.

Jan. 1, 1966

NYC hobbled by transit strike: A 12-day transit worker struck shuts down the New York City subway system.

Jan. 2, 1974

New speed limit enacted: A 55 mph speed limited Is enacted when President Richard Nixon signs The Emergency Highway Energy Conservation Act.

Jan. 3, 1969

Famed German Formula One racing driver born: Michael Schumacher, who is regarded by many as one of the greatest F1 drivers of all time, is born in West Germany.

Jan. 4, 1960

Crash kills author: Albert Camus, a French author whose works included “Stranger,” dies in an auto accident at age 46.

Jan. 5, 1914

Ford wages jump: Ford Motor Co. announces that wages will rise from $1.40 for a 9-hour day to $5.00 for an 8-hour day. 

Jan. 6, 1898

‘Ring, ring!’ It’s a sub: The first telephone message is received from a submerged submarine.