Electromobile (1905)

Electric cars have been around for over 125 years. William Morrison, of Des Moines IA, applied for a patent for an electric car that he built in 1887. The car had a 4HP motor that powered the front wheels and was capable of 20 MPH with a range of 50 miles.

By 1900, a third of all cars on the road were electric. Electric cars were popular in cities, especially amongst upper class women who would use the cars to attend formal events. By 1910, a car owner could install a charging station on their property.

The electric cars of the era outperformed their gasoline powered competitors. The range was acceptable for use within a city. Electric cars did not create the smells, noise (the muffler had yet to be invented), and vibrations of a gasoline cars. The gasoline cars had a manual crank making them difficult to start and it was very difficult to change gears of their manual transmissions.

So what led to the demise of the electric car? The cost of an electric car of the era was about $2000. In 1908, Henry Ford began producing the Model-T Ford into production with a price of $650 per car. In 1912, the electric starter was invented which meant that gasoline cars no need manually crank started. Improvements in road systems between towns and cities allowed for longer travel distances at a time in which gasoline cars were surpassing electric cars in range. Then there was the discovery of oil in Texas and Oklahoma which allowed for much cheaper gasoline.

This 1905 Electromobile was one of two electric cars purchased by Lars and Isabel Anderson. The car was made in England. The electric motor powered the rear wheels. The car drew attention due to its unusual shape and design.

The Anderson’s gave the car the nickname of ‘Bringer of Happiness’.