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The 1899 Daimler 12hp holds an important place in British automotive history. Purchased by John Montagu MP in May 1899, this car was regularly driven from the New Forest to London. It became famous that summer as the first petrol-powered vehicle to enter the Palace Yard of the House of Commons.
In August 1899, Montagu took the Daimler to the Paris–Ostend road race, where he competed alongside C.S. Rolls, who drove a Panhard. Montagu finished third in the Touring Class, marking a significant moment in the early days of European motor racing.
The car also played a role in the Thousand Mile Trial in April and May 1900. Organized by the Automobile Club of Great Britain & Ireland, this event aimed to promote motoring to the public. Starting and ending in London, the trial passed through major cities in the Midlands and North, with Montagu driving the Daimler to help showcase the potential of automobiles in Britain.
The 1899 Daimler 12hp not only marked milestones in racing but also helped push forward the acceptance and popularity of automobiles in the UK.