1912 Baker Electric Special Extension Coupe

The Baker Motor Vehicle Company was founded in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1899 and was introduced at the First National Automobile Show held at Madison Square Garden in New York in 1900. The company's slogan was 'it outsells other electric vehicles because it outclasses them.'

Early electric automobiles found great acceptance, especially in large cities where speed and distance were not an issue. Many early automobile purchasers believed that electrics were more reliable and less troublesome than the early gasoline and steam-powered vehicles. By 1910, however, it became clear that the gasoline-powered automobile was the most practical choice, and electric and steam-powered vehicle sales began to decrease.

This 1912 Baker Electric features pneumatic tires, the famous Baker 'bevel gear shaft driven rear end,' and electric powered side lamps, tail light, and a single, front-mounted headlamp. The interior is lavishly appointed with a vanity case, flower vases and an electric dome light. It sold new for $2,700 in 1912.

In 1915, the Baker Company merged with Rauch and Lang, another popular builder of electric cars, but in 1916 both companies ended production.