For what were necessary figures on cars?

Did you know that this little figure on the hood had practical use? In early cars, the radiator cap was opened separately from the hood and it could indicate which temperature had coolant. The Boyce MotoMeter received a patent and began installing thermometers on the radiator caps that were visible to drivers. So car companies explored, that it can be an element of their branding. After some time, it became unnecessary. Also, statistics were collected that figures increase the number of pedestrian injuries in collisions. But some companies still put little beautiful figure on hood. They provided them with mechanisms that fold or draw figures inside with a sharp blow. For example, on this beautiful Rolls Royce Wraith is little figure of the goddess Nike. You can rent it on RentIn to see how it hides inside the hood.