Baker Electric (1902, U.S.)

For a long period after gasoline-powered automobiles gained popularity, battery-powered automobiles continued to be made in the U.S. Battery-powered automobiles had the advantages of a quiet ride and no exhaust emissions, as well as not requiring cranking to start. The Baker was produced from 1899 to 1915.

The unusual suspension of this car consisted of attaching the wheel shafts directly to the frame, on top of which was mounted a body on springs. The body carried the motor, which drove the rear wheels by a chain. A lever next to the driving seat controlled its speed. The Baker Electric was reputedly easy to drive, and could cruise a distance of 80 kilometers when fully charged, reaching a top speed of 40km/h.

Stanley Steamer Model E2 (1909, U.S.)

Stanley began producing steam automobiles in 1897. With the appearance of Cadillac's selfstarter, the steam cars, which required warming up, gradually disappeared. However, production of the Stanley Steamer comtinued until 1927, because it was quiet, had little vibration, produced sufficient torque and was easy to handle.

Under the bonnet of this vehicle was a boiler which provided the pressure to drive a two-cylinder engine located beneath the floor. Because of its abundant torque, the Stanley Steamer did not have a transmission - just one gear engaged the center of its crankshaft, and directly turned the rear wheels. Manipulating the Steamer's valves, which controlled the flow of fuel, water, and steam, must have required quite a bit of practice and knowledge. 

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