German-manufacturer Mercedes-Benz specialises in automobiles, buses, coaches, and trucks. It is currently a division of Daimler AG, after previously being owned by Daimler-Benz. The luxury car-maker has its origins in Karl Benz's creation of the first gasoline-powered automobile in January 1886 with the first Mercedes-Benz brand name vehicles produced in 1926. Karl Benz made the Mercedes-Benz company officially the oldest car maker in the world. Numerous technological innovations have been introduced on Mercedes-Benz automobiles during its many years of production. The company has been instrumental in the introduction of Anti-lock brakes (ABS), pre-tensioners to seat belts, stability control, first 7-speed automatic transmission, brake assist and many others safety equipments. Mercedes-Benz is currently active in several form of motor sport. In Formula One, the company part owns Team McLaren. This partnership has brought success, including Drivers Championships for Mika Häkkinen in 1998 and 1999 and for Lewis Hamilton in 2008, as well as a Constructors Championship in 1998. The collaboration with McLaren has been extended into the production of super cars such as the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. Mercedes-Benz had a reputation for its quality, durability and reliability. Mercedes showed dramatic improvement by climbing from 25th to 5th place, surpassing quality leader Toyota and earning several awards for its models. On top of this accolade, it also received the Platinum Plant Quality Award. As of 2009, Consumer Reports recommended the E-Class and the S-Class. The brand is today able to propose a very large range of vehicles to satisfy the most part of potential client’s wishes. The A class is very capable and user-friendly in town, with a very interesting level of comfort and build quality. For those who are looking for space and equipments, the E class, CLS and S class propose the latest innovations regarding to security and comfort. To finish with, Mercedes-Benz has made its proves in the production of 4-wheel-drive (as the GL, GLK and ML) roadsters, coupe and convertible as the SL, CLK and SLK.