1913 Baker WB Roadster

Baker Motor Vehicle Company was one of the most prominent producers of electric vehicles during the early 1900s. By 1913, like most of the other electric automobile producers, they were struggling to stay in business. The electric car had many advantages, such as easy operation, quiet, and clean. The advent of the electric starter and tremendous advancements in power meant that the gasoline engine would ultimately prevail as the power source of choice.

To help preserve their business, Baker Motor Company merged with Rauch & Lang in 1915. Rauch & Lang was also a Cleveland-based electric car manufacturer. Together the company produced electric vehicles under both names in 1916. Following that year, the company created two divisions, one to create bodies for gasoline cars while the other built electric vehicles.

The 1913 Baker WB Roadster carried a factory price of $2300 and was powered by a 48-volt battery. The WB Roadster was a sporty vehicle and sat atop a short 87-inch wheelbase. In 1914 only a steering wheel was available, but the following year, the company offered a tiller or a wheel to its customers.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2006