Small Home Gazette, Winter 2017
History Brief: The History of the Electric Car
1889–1891
William Morrison of Des Moines, Iowa, develops the first electric vehicle in the U.S.
1899
Electric vehicles, which had advantages over steam and gas versions, gain popularity. One-third of vehicles sold in the U.S. are electric.
1901
Ferdinand Porsche of sports car fame develops the first electric/gas hybrid car.
1908–1912
Electric cars are dealt a severe blow when Henry Ford starts selling the affordable and convenient Model T.
Thomas Edison with an electric car in 1913. Photo courtesy of the National Museum of American History.
1935
Electric cars have virtually vanished.
1973
After gas prices soar, automakers explore alternative fuels.
1996
General Motors releases the EV1 electric vehicle, which gains a cult following.
2006
Tesla Motors announces it will produce a luxury electric sports car with a range of more than 200 miles.
2014
Twenty-three plug-in electric vehicles and 33 hybrid models are available to consumers.
For additional details, visit the U.S. Department of Energy website: tinyurl.com/zsaw6l4.
