What self-moving machine did Leonardo da Vinci design for theatrical performances?

Leonardo da Vinci designed a self-propelled cart for theatrical performances.

The cart is described in drawings from around 1478 to 1480 and is commonly regarded as an early programmable or self-moving machine. Springs wound inside the vehicle supplied power, while wooden gears controlled the movement of its wheels. The cart could be set to travel a predetermined distance, making it suitable for stage effects or ceremonial displays.

Unlike a modern car, Leonardo’s cart had no combustion engine, steering wheel, or driver’s controls. Its motion came from stored mechanical energy and carefully arranged gearing. Because the surviving drawings do not provide every construction detail, modern replicas have helped researchers test possible interpretations.

The cart is separate from Leonardo’s later humanoid robotic knight. The cart is mainly a mobile automaton, while the knight was designed to produce human-like movements. Both demonstrate Leonardo’s interest in combining springs, gears, and programmed motion.