Louis-René Panhard, along with his business partner Émile Levassor, co-founded the car manufacturing company Panhard et Levassor in 1889. The company was based in France and played a crucial role in the early development of the car industry.
One of their significant achievements was the development of the modern car, known as the “Systeme Panhard.” This layout featured a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration, which became the standard design for cars and remains prevalent to this day.
The company also played a key role in the advancement of engine technology. They were among the first to incorporate the Daimler engine into their vehicles, utilizing internal combustion engines for their cars.
In the late 19th century, Panhard developed a system known as the “Panhard rod” that helped control the up-and-down movement of the vehicle’s suspension. Although the Panhard rod did not function as a traditional shock absorber, it played a role in improving vehicle stability and reducing jolts.
Panhard et Levassor also produced a range of vehicles, including cars, commercial vehicles, and military vehicles. They gained a reputation for their high-quality craftsmanship and innovative designs, which helped establish them as a leading automotive manufacturer during the early 20th century. While Panhard et Levassor no longer exists as an independent company, their legacy and contributions to the automotive industry continue to be recognised.