At the start of the 20th century, electric cars shone as signs of modern change. In the United States, these cars held one-third of the market by 1900. Gasoline cars soon grew and edged them aside. The early days of electric cars give clues to a past of auto design. 
The Rise of Early Electric Cars
The journey of electric cars began long ago. Robert Anderson built the first electric carriage in the 1830s. In the late 1800s, a change came. In 1890, chemist William Morrison showed a working electric car in the U.S. His car made people keen to see more.
These early cars had clear wins over gasoline and steam machines. They ran quietly, gave off no smoke, and were simple to drive. City folk liked their plain design. By 1900, New York had many electric taxis on its busy streets.
1900: A Peak in Popularity
In 1900, electric cars stood out. At a New York auto show, 160 vehicles were on display. About one-third were electric. These cars marked success and wealth. Their high cost put them out of reach for most buyers, with some models priced above $1,750. In Colorado, Oliver O. Fritchle built cars that could cover nearly 100 miles on one charge. His trips and public acts made his name known and drew famous customers.
Factors Behind the Decline
Sales of electric cars dropped after 1900. In 1908, the Ford Model T hit the market for $650. Its lower price let more people buy a car. Gasoline car makers added an electric starter to remove hard work. These changes made gasoline cars more welcome.
Better roads and cheap gasoline also helped. Buyers preferred cars for long trips, while electric cars could go only short distances. By 1935, few electric vehicles appeared on city streets.
A Historical Legacy
Early electric cars serve as a link to our past. Their struggles mirror issues today as new electric models try to win over gasoline cars. Now, our electric cars use modern tools and fresh ideas. Still, they show hints of designs made over a century back.
Interest in electric cars came back later in the 20th century. Rising oil costs and a need for clean air pushed people to think again of electric models. Today’s vehicles tackle both work and the planet’s care.
Conclusion
Electric cars in 1900 remind us that new ideas grow from old roots. As we face challenges now, the past can light our way forward. The goal remains to mix tech, taste, and a clean world. This aim lives today as strong as it did over one hundred years ago.
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