Where did the name “Mercedes” come from? As it turns out, Mercedes, one of the world’s most iconic brands, was named after a girl.

By way of backstory: In 1902, Emil Jellinek—a visionary and entrepreneur, and considered by many to be the father of the modern luxury car—worked with Karl Benz to create an innovative, top-of-the-line race-ready motorized carriage, or “automobile.” He entered his 4-cylinder car into races under the pseudonym, “Mercedes” after his daughter. Emil Jellinek won every race he entered. Soon, everyone wanted the car named Mercedes. Thus, the Mercedes brand name was born.

So, it all started with a girl named Mercedes. And now, the brand wants real-life girls named Mercedes to inspire us once again.