History of Innovation

History of Innovation
Delphi's 100+ years as an automotive industry innovator helps set us apart.
1908: Introduction of Champion spark plugs
1911: First self-starter ignition
1911: First automotive radiator
1912: First electric starter
1929: First car heater
1936: First in-dash radio
1954: First automobile air conditioner enclosed under the hood
1960: First child restraint system
1963: First cruise control
1966: First fiber optics for use in automotive applications
1973: First production airbag
1975: First catalytic converter: exhaust cleans up its act
1996: Introduced of vehicle satellite positioning and communications unit
1999: First radar-based smart cruise control
2002: First radar-based back-up aid
2002: First factory-installed satellite radio
2002: First completely portable satellite radio (SKYFi)
2002: First under-the-floor climate control system (Renault Espace IV)
2004: First personal, portable satellite radio (Delphi MyFi)
2006: First USB Consumer PORT for in-vehicle data exchange
2007: First satellite TV (Sirius Backseat TV™)
2008: First prepackaged airbag/steering wheel featured on the Smart Fortwo
2008: First to market multi-port hub to provide complete data connectivity solutions
2008: First direct acting diesel fuel injection system
2008: First audio system that integrates Bluetooth, MP3, USB and iPod on a truck
2008: First common rail system for high durability medium and heavy duty applications
2009: Launched first automotive multimode electronically scanning radar