1931 Detroit Electric Model 98A

In 1884 the Anderson Carriage Company was founded, and by 1907 William Anderson had entered the automobile age. The initial vehicle was an electric roadster designed by engineer George M. Bacon. 125 examples had been produced by Christmas and 400 by 1908. Within two years, over 1,000 examples were produced. Batteries improved, a coupe and Victoria body style was added, and an increase in the electrification in America made it possible to charge the cars at home.

The Detroit Electric Company built cars from 1907 to 1942, making them the longest-lived American electric car company. Although in business until 1942, after 1930, production was limited to custom orders. Always called Detroit Electrics, the company was not renamed to suit until 1919 after Anderson retired. By 1920, most electric car manufacturers had abandoned the technology, yet Detroit and a few others remained.

Anderson purchased the Elwell Parker Company of Cleveland in 1910, formerly suppliers of motors to rival Baker and others. In 1911, the firm introduced a chainless direct-shaft drive, with no gear reduction between motor and axle. The Type B Detroit Electrics were introduced in 1915. Intended to compete with lower-priced competitors, they were less-expensive models and more affordable to a wider audience of buyers. They had a standardized controller and reverse switch located under the seat. Standard colors included Brewster Green, Royal Blue, or Detroit Grey-Green.

During the production lifespan, the Detroit Electric company produced 12,690 vehicles with 1,450 of those built after 1920. Only three examples of the 1931 Model 98A were originally produced. Just two examples remain. Production of the Model 98A was low, with just twelve examples produced between 1926 and 1934. The Model 98 represented vehicles that were re-manufactured and modernized.

by Daniel Vaughan | May 2019