While electric vehicles (EVs) have recently surged in popularity, their history in America stretches back much further than many people realize. In fact, electric cars were a significant part of the early automotive landscape, predating the dominance of gasoline-powered vehicles. This article explores the fascinating journey of electric cars in the US, from their initial rise to their eventual decline and recent resurgence.
The Dawn of Electric Vehicles in America
The first successful electric car in the United States was developed around 1890 by William Morrison, a chemist from Des Moines, Iowa. His vehicle, essentially an electrified wagon, could carry six passengers and reach a top speed of 14 miles per hour. Though rudimentary, Morrison’s invention sparked considerable interest in electric vehicles.
Early Popularity and Advantages
By 1900, electric cars had reached their peak popularity, accounting for roughly one-third of all vehicles on American roads. Several factors contributed to their initial success:
- Cleanliness: Unlike the noisy, smelly, and often vibrating gasoline cars of the time, electric cars were quiet, clean, and did not produce exhaust fumes.
- Ease of Use: Electric cars did not require the difficult and cumbersome hand-cranking to start that gasoline cars did, making them particularly appealing to women.
- No Gear Shifting: Early gasoline cars required complex gear changes, while electric vehicles offered a smoother, simpler driving experience.
- Ideal for Urban Use: With limited range and the best roads being within city limits, electric vehicles were well-suited for the local travel common at the time.
Key Manufacturers and Models
Several manufacturers produced electric vehicles during this early period, with some notable brands including:
- Baker Motor Vehicle Company: Known for the luxurious and popular Baker Imperial Runabout, which was favored by celebrities of the time.
- Columbia Automobile Company: Another prominent early manufacturer of electric vehicles.
- Detroit Electric: A particularly successful company that produced over 13,000 electric cars between 1907 and 1939, known for their durability.
- Anderson Electric: This company produced the Detroit Electric car.
- Anthony Electric: One of the main manufacturers of electric vehicles in the US during the early 20th century.
- Milburn Wagon Company: Offered more affordable electric cars, which increased sales.
These early EVs were often ornate and expensive, appealing to the upper class. They were essentially horse-drawn carriages that had been retrofitted with electric motors. They were luxurious, featuring high-quality interiors and expensive materials.
The Rise of Electric Taxis
Electric vehicles were not just a novelty for the wealthy. In the late 1890s, cities like New York City began to use electric cabs. A fleet of over a dozen electric hansom cabs and a brougham was established as an early commercial venture for electric vehicles. In 1897, the first commercial application was established with a fleet of New York City taxis. The silent operation and ease of use of electric vehicles were a major draw for city dwellers.
The Decline of Electric Cars
Despite their initial popularity, electric cars began to decline in the early 20th century, ultimately being overtaken by gasoline-powered vehicles. Several factors contributed to this shift:
The Affordability and Mass Production of Gasoline Cars
Henry Ford’s introduction of the Model T and mass production techniques made gasoline cars significantly more affordable than electric vehicles. By 1912, the Model T cost around $650, while an electric car could cost as much as $1,750. This price difference was a major factor in the declining sales of EVs.
The Invention of the Electric Starter
Charles Kettering’s invention of the electric starter for gasoline cars in 1912 removed one of the primary drawbacks of gasoline vehicles—the need for hand-cranking. This innovation made gasoline cars more convenient, further eroding the advantages of electric vehicles.
Limited Range and Charging Infrastructure
Early electric vehicles had a limited range, typically between 40 and 60 miles per charge. The lack of widespread charging infrastructure meant that EVs were primarily limited to local, urban travel. In contrast, gasoline cars could travel much longer distances.
Improvements in Road Infrastructure
As the 1920s progressed, roads across the country improved, creating a need for cars with longer ranges. Electric vehicles, confined to the city with their limited range and top speeds of only 20 mph, simply couldn’t compete.
The Texas Oil Boom
The discovery of large oil reserves in Texas led to a boom in gasoline production, further reducing the cost of fuel and making gasoline cars even more attractive to consumers.
Marketing and Social Factors
Electric cars were often marketed toward women, while gasoline cars were branded for adventurous men. This gendered marketing, combined with the limitations of early EVs, further contributed to their decline.
Attempts at Revival
Despite their decline, there were several attempts to revive electric vehicles throughout the 20th century:
- The Henney Kilowatt (1950s): The National Electric Company and Henney Coachworks produced the Henney Kilowatt, an electric car that could reach a top speed of 60 mph and travel 50 miles on a charge. It was, however, an expensive novelty and ended production in 1961.
- Concept Cars (1960s): American Motors Corporation and General Motors experimented with electric concept cars, like the 1964 Corvair-based Electrovair, but these did not lead to mass production.
- Sebring-Vanguard CitiCar (1970s): A small electric car that emerged during a period of renewed interest in EVs.
These attempts, however, failed to achieve widespread adoption due to technological limitations, the continued dominance of gasoline cars, and a lack of infrastructure.
The Modern Resurgence
It wasn’t until the late 20th and early 21st centuries that electric vehicles began to make a significant comeback, driven by:
- Environmental Concerns: Growing awareness of climate change and the environmental impact of gasoline cars has led to increased interest in EVs.
- Technological Advancements: Improvements in battery technology have significantly increased the range and performance of electric vehicles.
- Government Incentives: Many governments are offering tax incentives and other support to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles.
- Tesla: The success of Tesla, starting with the Model S, helped propel electric cars into the mainstream.
Today, electric vehicles are experiencing exponential growth, with sales exceeding 10 million in 2022. Major automakers are investing heavily in EV technology, and the charging infrastructure is rapidly expanding.
Conclusion
The history of electric cars in America is one of dramatic ups and downs. From their initial popularity at the turn of the 20th century to their subsequent decline and modern resurgence, electric vehicles have played a significant role in the evolution of personal transportation. Despite early limitations, the modern electric car has become a viable and increasingly popular alternative to gasoline vehicles, promising a cleaner and more sustainable future for transportation. As technology continues to advance and infrastructure improves, the electric vehicle is poised to play an even greater role in the years to come.