1919 Rauch and Lang Model C-55 Double Drive Electric Coach

In 1884, Jacob Rauch and Charles Lang of Cleveland, Ohio established a carriage-building business. By 1905, they were building electric cars in open stanhope configuration, which was soon joined by coupes and depot wagons. A few years later, in 1908, the company was producing 500 cars a year, though demand was far greater.

After the introduction of the electric starter, demand for electric vehicles began to drop. As sales declined, the company merged with the Baker Motor Vehicle Company, the maker of Baker Electric, to form Baker R&L Company. From 1917, all cars were sold under the Rauch & Lang name.

This Model C-55 was given a restoration in 1997 by Hyannis Restorations in Massachusetts. It is painted red and accented with an orange pinstripe, repeated on the boy-color wheel hubs. The vehicle rides on wood artillery wheels that have varnished spoked. The inside is upholstered in tan cord cloth with carpet in a matching hue. There are dual controls, enabling the driver to operate from either the front or rear seat. The lighting is electric all-around. Power is from a 90-volt Baker DC motor that offers three horsepower. Braking is from the two-wheel mechanical brakes.

In 2011, this vehicle was offered for sale at the Amelia Island sale presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $40,000 - $60,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had found a new owner for the sum of $55,000 inclusive of the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2011