1910 Baker Model V Electric Victoria

The Baker Electrics were produced in Cleveland, Ohio, from 1899 to 1916. They were one of the more popular producers of electric vehicles and were very successful for many years. In 1902, Walter Baker built a racing special electric vehicle that covered the mile in only 47 seconds (It, unfortunately, crashed). For 1903, Baker returned with a new Racing Special which would capture several speed records. Again, his efforts were met with an accident, this time involving another electric vehicle.

In 1915, the Baker Company merged with Rauch & Lang, a rival Cleveland-based electric-car manufacturer. The result of this merger was the Baker, Rauch & Lang Company.

This 1910 Baker Model V Electric Victoria has a General Electric four-pole series wound Electric Motor with two-braking systems. There are six-forward speeds and three reverse speeds. One of the braking systems works on the rear hub, and the other is on the motor. The Victoria was one of many body styles offered by Baker in 1910, and it offered seating for two and a folding top for protection against the elements.

This was the last car to enter the Carl J. Schmitt Collection - a vast collection of many significant brass-era cars that featured gasoline, steam, and electric power. This Model V Victoria has been a part of several significant collections, including the Blackhawk, Lorin Tryon, and Robert J. Gottlieb.

A modern plug-in charger has been added to this car for ease of use. This Model V is equipped with tiller steering and shaft drive.

In 2008, this Baker Electric was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company Auction held in Pebble Beach, California. It was estimated to sell for $30,000 - $50,000 and offered without reserve. The lot was sold for $77,000, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2009