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GM first set itself apart with the electric self-starter, which was invented by Charles “Boss” Kettering and introduced by Cadillac in 1912. The self-starter is still widely considered the most significant automotive innovation of the 20th century.

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Cadillac raised the bar for performance with the industry’s first V-type, water-cooled, eight-cylinder engine. The 314-cubic-inch engine produced 70 horsepower at 2,400 rpm and was the industry’s first major step in the development of high-speed, high-compression engines. The V-8 was standard on all 1915 Cadillac models.

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Cadillac’s introduction of tilt-beam headlights, which were operated by a handle on the dash, was a major advance in nighttime visibility and set the standard for others to follow.

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General Motors Acceptance Corporation (GMAC) established an entirely new business called retail automotive finance.

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Led by “Boss” Kettering, GM tested hundreds of materials to reduce the knocking sound produced by gasoline engines and improve the engine’s efficiency and power. Working with chemical suppliers, GM developed the process for manufacturing a new gasoline with tetraethyl lead additive. Called Ethyl, it was soon sold across North America and led to the development of more efficient and higher compression engines.

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GM opened the industry’s first proving ground facility in Milford, Michigan, in the U.S.

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The 1927 Cadillac LaSalle was the first car designed from the ground up by a professional designer – the celebrated Harley Earl, who is considered the father of automotive design.  With this vehicle, GM ushered in a new era of cars that represented far more than a means of transportation.