1914 Detroit Electric Model 47

The Anderson Electric Car Company was in business for three decades and during that time, they were the builders of the Detroit Electic. Founded in 1884 by William C. Anderson, they produced more electric automobiles than any other American passenger car manufacturer. The company was originally based in Port Huron, Michigan (coincidentally the hometown of Thomas Edison) and were makers of carriages and wagons. The company was moved to Detroit in 1895, and in 1907 they focused their efforts and attention on building electric-powered horseless carriages. After two successful years of sales, they purchased the Elwell-Parker Company, which had previously supplied components to Baker for their Electric cars. This allowed Anderson to build virtually the whole car in-house. The company was later renamed the Anderson Electric Car Company, but it would become better known as its final company name, which they took on after his retirement in 1918 of Detroit Electric.

At the dawn of the horseless carriage, during the period just before 1900, electric and steam vehicles competed with gasoline power for market supremacy. The electric cars were popular due to their relatively easy and pleasingly quiet operation. The battery range was the issue and by 1910, it was clear the gasoline automobile would predominate. Electric vehicle production soldiered on, continuing to find some favor, often with women, as an ideal car for short city jaunts.

The 1914 Detroit Electric Model 47 Brougham was powered by a 48-volt DC electric motor that offered an estimated three horsepower. The body was suspended by four-wheel semi-elliptical leaf springs and rear-wheel mechanical drum brakes provided the stopping power. The wheelbase measured 100 inches and the base price was approximately $2,850.

Two hand levers controlled the car. The long lever was used to steer while the short lever regulated speed. Both could be folded out of the way when the car was not being driven to make entrances and exits easier. Without a conventional internal combustion motor, gearbox, or chain drive, the Detroit was extremely quiet to operate.

Advertisements claimed that the vehicles could cover 80 miles between battery charges and had a top speed of 20 mph, adequate for in-town driving.

by Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2012