From Early Prototypes to On-Surface Drivable Single Molecule Nano-vehicles

From their early prototypes to their most recent versions, the history of on-surface molecule-vehicles is briefly presented. An emphasis on their mechanical properties upon different manipulation modes induced by the STM tip, namely constant current, constant height, STM voltage pulse and dipolar mode are discussed. In addition, the chemical structure/mechanical property relationship of those nano-vehicles is described with a highlight on the first edition of the Nanocar Race. Finally, perspectives of the field are given with the introduction of molecular motors in the design of nano-vehicles thus leading to the first prototypes of motorized molecular vehicles on a surface for the technomimetic approach.