1910 Baker Model V Electric

Victoria
Chassis number: 1918
Engine number: 120S60

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 Dan Vaughan

The invention of the electric starter meant that gasoline-powered vehicles would ultimately become the fuel type of choice. Before this, the electric vehicles were popular because of their ease of use, lack of fumes, and quiet operation. The Baker automobile, created by Walter C. Baker, was one of the more popular electric vehicles. Walter graduated from the Case School of Applied Science, now known as Case Western Reserve University, and became the owner of his own company in 1898 when he formed the American Ball Bearing Company. With the assistance of Rollin and Fred White, Baker established the Baker Motor Vehicle Company in 1899. His vehicles were revolutionary, introducing many industry 'firsts' such as the first shaft-driven autos, the first use of steel ball bearings in his chassis, and the first rear-axle bevel gears.

The Runabout and Stanhope had proven to be popular automobiles, so Baker expanded his offerings by introducing the Newport and a Physician's Chapelette. Production of the Newport lasted for two years and was hailed by the Company as a 'light carriage which is bound to win great popularity at summer resorts. It is very simple and easy to manipulate. Being absolutely free of lubricants, the finest gowns may be worn by its occupants.' This campaign amplified the company's position as offering vehicles that were suitable for women to operate.

The invention of the electric starter increased the popularity of the gasoline powered vehicles and meant the demise of the electric vehicle. In 1915 Baker merged with Rauch & Lang, another Cleveland based electric auto producer. Together they switched to producing industrial vehicles and trucks. After time the company evolved into the Baker Materials Handling Company. In 1989 the comapny went out of business.

by Dan Vaughan