Getting Rid of the Horse

The early days of automobiles are full of promise. Gas-powered engines and electric motors are already being used to generate electricity and pump water. It's only a matter of time before they will power vehicles, as well.

Henry Ford, Chief Engineer of the Edison Light Company in Detroit, is among those intrigued by the possibilities. After taking a test ride in a competitor's car, he develops an early experimental design, and his own engine.

Ford isn't actually the first. There has already been an 80-mile race in Europe, won in 1884 by a gas-powered auto. A year later, a 55-mile race from Chicago to Waukegan is won by a gas-powered car averaging 7 mph.
Early autos, 1900

  A Work in Progress
The internal combustion engine, which makes it all possible, is first patented in America back in 1826. By 1890, people are focused on adapting gasoline engines to carriage bodies. The photo in the center is the first auto patented in Europe, by the firm that will become Mercedes Benz. By 1898, 1,000 patents have been awarded for gasoline engine designs. 

Model T Ford, 1910

  Hello, Tin Lizzie
The big year for autos is 1908, when Ford introduces his venerable Model T, nicknamed the Tin Lizzie. While other manufacturers are working on faster, fancier and more comfortable models, Ford focuses instead on bringing down the cost. The Model T is sold in many body styles, as shown above, but remains little changed over its 20-year production span. Some 15 million are built until it is finally replaced by the re-designed Model A, in 1927.


Motoring, 1910

  Be Sure to Bring Tools
The growing popularity of automobiles is not due to their speed, but rather their promise of true mobility. At this point, however, most country roads are in appalling condition. Tires need constant changing, and gas is not generally available outside city limits. Those not technically inclined need to hire a full-time driver/mechanic just to keep it running. Still, a grand ride in the country is an appealing vision. Touring cars offer a comfortable, protected ride without the need to abandon stylish clothing.