The Politecnico di Torino is one of the world's top 100 polytechnic institutions and one of Italy's most prestigious institutions of higher learning. Founded in 1859, initially as a practical school for engineers, and then in 1906 with the Italian Industrial Museum merged into the Royal Turin Polytechnic University. In particular, it enjoys an international reputation in the fields of engineering technology, such as architectural design, mechanical manufacturing, and electronic communications. It is also home to the Fiat and Ferrari car design and manufacturing plants, as well as the General Motors diesel engine research and development center. The Polytechnic University of Turin has been the driving force behind the renewal of Italian industry, technology and social development for 150 years.