Electric cars are often associated with the modern era, celebrated for their zero emissions and cutting-edge technology. However, the concept of electric mobility dates back well over a century. While Tesla and other EV brands dominate today’s headlines, the journey of electric vehicles (EVs) began in the 19th century with modest, yet groundbreaking innovations. Early electric cars laid the foundation for today’s advanced EV technology, offering silent operation and clean driving long before it was considered environmentally necessary.
In this article, we explore the 9 earliest electric cars in history. Each entry includes an overview, key specifications, and its historical significance. These pioneering vehicles demonstrate the timeless human pursuit of innovation, sustainability, and efficient transportation.
9 Earliest Electric Cars You’ve Never Heard of Before
1. Flocken Elektrowagen (1888): The First Real Electric Car
Overview
The Flocken Elektrowagen, built in 1888 by German inventor Andreas Flocken, is widely considered the first true electric vehicle. It predates the more widely known internal combustion engine cars and proved that electric propulsion could be a viable method of transportation.
Key Features
Powertrain: Simple electric motor powered by non-rechargeable batteries
Structure: Carriage-style design made of wood with four wheels
Speed: Estimated top speed of 9 mph (14 km/h)
Control: Very basic steering and braking mechanisms
Why It’s Important
The Flocken Elektrowagen introduced the world to a new type of mobility—one that did not require steam or gasoline. It paved the way for future experimentation and helped shape the foundation of electric transportation. Though crude by today’s standards, it was revolutionary at its time.
2. Morrison Electric (1890): First Electric Car in the United States
Overview
Built by William Morrison in Des Moines, Iowa, the Morrison Electric was America’s first successful electric automobile. It was essentially a modified wagon fitted with electric batteries and a motor, but it gained attention for its practicality and innovation.
Key Features
Batteries: 24-cell battery system
Range: Around 50 miles on a single charge
Speed: Top speed of 14 mph
Seating: Could accommodate up to six passengers
Why It’s Important
The Morrison Electric demonstrated that electric vehicles could be functional and user-friendly. It became a popular showcase vehicle and helped spark public interest in electric propulsion during the late 19th century.
3. Electrobat (1894): America’s First Electric Taxi
Overview
Developed by Henry Morris and Pedro Salom, the Electrobat was originally designed as an electric tricycle but evolved into a small electric carriage. It is known for being one of the earliest electric taxis in the United States.
Key Features
Battery: Lead-acid battery pack
Chassis: Heavy steel frame, weighing over 4,000 pounds
Range: Roughly 25 miles per charge
Usage: Commercial taxi service in Philadelphia
Why It’s Important
The Electrobat was the first electric vehicle to be used commercially. It was robust and built for urban streets, representing an early application of EVs in public transportation.
4. Baker Electric (1899): Elegant and Reliable
Overview
Founded by Walter C. Baker in Cleveland, Ohio, the Baker Electric became known for its elegant styling and reliable performance. It was popular among wealthy urbanites, especially women, for its easy operation.
Key Features
Speed: Up to 14 mph
Range: Around 50 miles per charge
Interior: Luxurious cabin with leather seats and wood accents
Drive System: Rear-wheel electric drive
Why It’s Important
The Baker Electric gained a loyal following and even counted famous personalities like Clara Ford (wife of Henry Ford) among its users. It demonstrated that EVs could be practical, luxurious, and stylish all at once.
5. Columbia Electric Runabout (1900): America’s Best-Selling Electric Car
Overview
Manufactured by the Columbia Automobile Company, the Columbia Electric Runabout was among the most successful early electric cars in the U.S. It combined elegance with simplicity, making it a favorite among early car buyers.
Key Features
Price: Sold for $850—a luxury price at the time
Speed: 15 mph top speed
Range: Between 30–40 miles per charge
Controls: Simple tiller steering and foot-operated brakes
Why It’s Important
The Columbia Runabout sold over 1,000 units in a short period and marked a high point in early electric vehicle adoption. It was a preferred choice in urban areas where charging infrastructure and range were less of a concern.
6. Detroit Electric (1907): The EV That Outlasted the Competition
Overview
The Anderson Electric Car Company produced the Detroit Electric, one of the most successful electric cars of its time. It remained in production from 1907 to 1939—one of the longest-running electric car models in history.
Key Features
Battery: Lead-acid battery (later options for Edison nickel-iron)
Range: 80 miles on average, up to 100 miles under ideal conditions
Top Speed: Around 20 mph
Body Styles: Offered as coupe, sedan, and brougham models
Why It’s Important
Detroit Electric’s long production run and commitment to innovation helped it become a symbol of early electric mobility. It appealed to city drivers and was especially popular among professional women for its cleanliness and ease of use.
7. Krieger Electric Landaulet (1904): France’s Luxury EV
Overview
The Krieger Electric Landaulet was developed in France and featured a unique hybrid-electric configuration. It was one of the earliest attempts to blend electric power with a gasoline-powered generator, foreshadowing modern hybrid technology.
Key Features
Drive: Electric motor with gasoline generator as a range extender
Steering: Wheel rather than tiller
Suspension: Sophisticated setup for a smoother ride
Target Market: Wealthy French aristocrats
Why It’s Important
The Krieger Landaulet was ahead of its time, offering both electric and gasoline propulsion. It showed that engineers were already thinking about ways to extend electric range—an issue still relevant today.
8. Riker Electric Vehicle (1898): Pioneering American Speedster
Overview
Developed by Andrew Riker, this early electric vehicle showed impressive performance and design. Riker’s cars were known for their speed and power, competing in early races and reliability trials.
Key Features
Speed: Reached speeds of over 40 mph
Power: Multiple electric motors delivering high torque
Build: Streamlined and performance-oriented design
Racing: Won a race against gasoline-powered cars in 1901
Why It’s Important
Riker’s work proved that electric vehicles could also be fast and competitive. His designs helped influence the future of electric motorsport and inspired further EV development.
9. Studebaker Electric (1902): A Trusted Name in Transition
Overview
Before becoming a gasoline vehicle powerhouse, Studebaker began its automotive journey with electric vehicles. Its early EVs were reliable and featured cutting-edge technology for their time.
Key Features
Battery Type: Lead-acid
Range: Up to 50 miles
Target Audience: Business owners and fleet services
Body: Sturdy carriage-like frame with premium features
Why It’s Important
Studebaker’s early investment in electric vehicles showed that even major automakers saw potential in electric propulsion. Though it later transitioned to gasoline, Studebaker’s electric history is a valuable part of EV heritage.
Conclusion
Electric vehicles may seem like a product of modern innovation, but their roots go deep into automotive history. These 9 earliest electric cars helped lay the groundwork for today’s EV revolution. From the pioneering Flocken Elektrowagen to the elegant Detroit Electric, each model contributed a chapter to the evolution of electric mobility.
These early electric cars offered quiet, clean, and efficient transportation long before it became necessary for environmental reasons. They demonstrated ingenuity, perseverance, and foresight—values that continue to drive the modern electric vehicle industry today.
As the world embraces sustainable transportation, it’s important to remember the trailblazers that sparked the journey. These vehicles were not just modes of transport; they were milestones in the history of human innovation.
