A fascinating TikTok video from @oldrhinebeck.aerodrome highlighted one of the earliest electric cars — the 1911 Baker Electric. While we often think of electric vehicles as a modern innovation, the truth is that EVs were a serious contender in the early 20th century. The Baker Electric wasn’t just functional; it was stylish, practical, and even luxurious for its time.
What set this pioneering EV apart, and how its influence continues to shape the automotive world today?
A Luxury Car Without the Gasoline Hassle
In the early 1900s, driving a gasoline-powered car wasn’t exactly easy. You had to hand-crank the engine to start it, deal with frequent breakdowns, and endure the strong smell of fuel. The Baker Electric, on the other hand, was silent, smooth, and didn’t require cranking — just a switch to turn it on.
It quickly became popular among wealthy drivers, including famous names like Thomas Edison. The Baker Electric was marketed for its ease of use and luxury, attracting high-profile buyers.
@oldrhinebeck.aerodrome This is one of the first #electriccars EVER MADE! #electricvehicle #ev #vintage #retro #car #cartok #cartiktok #smartcar #car #electric #history ♬ original sound – OldRhinebeckAerodrome
Impressive Range and Performance for Its Time
You might assume an early EV would have a laughably short range, but the Baker Electric could travel up to 100 miles on a single charge, comparable to some modern EVs! It used lead-acid batteries and had a top speed of around 20 mph, which was more than enough for city driving at the time.
In a time when gas stations were scarce, and engine reliability was a gamble, an electric car that could charge at home made perfect sense.
The Downfall: Why Didn’t Electric Cars Take Over?
So, if electric cars were so great, why didn’t they win out over gasoline cars back then? In 1912, Cadillac introduced the electric starter, eliminating the need for hand-cranking gas engines. Suddenly, gasoline cars became far more convenient. As oil drilling expanded, gasoline became more affordable and widely available, and as roads improved and people wanted to drive farther, the limited range of electric cars became a disadvantage compared to gas-powered models.
By the 1920s, electric cars had all but disappeared from mainstream production.
Why the 1911 Baker Electric Still Matters
More than a century later, the Baker Electric reminds us that EVs aren’t just a new trend — they’re a comeback story. The same reasons people loved the Baker Electric in 1911 — quiet operation, no emissions, and simple controls — are the same reasons EVs are gaining popularity today.
With modern battery technology advancing rapidly, the challenges that once held electric cars back are finally being overcome. The resurgence of EVs aligns with the early appeal of models like the Baker Electric.
