Nicolaus Otto (engineer)

Nicolaus Otto was a German engineer who invented the four-stroke internal combustion engine in 1876, a design still foundational today. His engine uses a cycle of four steps—intake, compression, power, and exhaust—to efficiently convert fuel into mechanical movement. This development revolutionized transportation by powering cars, motorcycles, and many other machines. Otto's work improved engine efficiency and reliability, laying the groundwork for the modern gasoline engine industry. His innovations contributed significantly to the growth of motor vehicles and industrial machinery, making transportation faster, more practical, and accessible worldwide.