On October 1, 1908, the first Ford Model T was produced. It featured a hand-crank motor until 1919, and its 4-cylinder engine produced around 20 horsepower. Passengers trucked along at speeds of up to 45 miles per hour, and got 13-21 miles per gallon.

Since its inception in 1908, the Ford Model T has been a groundbreaking machine. By 1921, the Model T accounted for nearly 57% of worldwide automobile production. By the time production halted in 1927, over 15 million had been built. Indeed, the Model T was the best-selling vehicle of all time until 1972, when it was overtaken by the also-iconic Volkswagen Beetle.

Although the Ford Model T is rarely seen on the highways outside of classic car shows, the car company still remains at the forefront of innovation. The Ford Rouge production plant in Dearborn, Michigan, is among the country’s most eco-friendly. And Ford continues to explore new possibilities for fuel-efficient vehicles.

Enjoy the gallery of old Model T photos, as well as these 13 Ford innovations that have come in the 100 years since the Ford Model T was first produced.