Panhard, originally known as Panhard et Levassor, holds a significant place in automotive history. Established in 1887 by René Panhard, Émile Levassor, and Belgian lawyer Edouard Sarazin, it was one of the earliest automobile manufacturers. Their first car, introduced in 1890, utilized a Daimler engine license. Panhard et Levassor pioneered several key features: a front-mounted engine with rear-wheel drive, a sliding-gear transmission, and a steering wheel-a groundbreaking innovation. By the time of World War I, they were among the largest automakers and successful race competitors across Europe. Post-war, Panhard reinvented itself, focusing on lightweight, cost-effective vehicles.