The automotive industry began with the invention of the internal combustion engine in 1876. It originated in Germany where the four-stroke engine, petrol automobile, and diesel engine were invented. The top 10 car manufacturing companies are led by Toyota, Volkswagen, and General Motors. Honda Motor Company was founded in Japan by Soichiro Honda and initially produced piston rings and motorcycles before expanding into automobiles. It is now a multinational corporation and one of the largest producers of motorcycles, engines, and automobiles worldwide.