Detroit Electric was an American electric car manufacturer originally founded in 1907 as the Anderson Electric Car Company in Detroit, Michigan. The brand produced reliable electric cars that became especially popular among wealthy urban drivers, including notable figures like Thomas Edison and Clara Ford. At its peak in the 1910s and 1920s, Detroit Electric was the world’s leading producer of electric cars, known for their quiet operation and ease of use. However, the rise of gasoline-powered vehicles led to its decline, and production ended in the late 1930s. The brand was revived in the 21st century with limited-production modern EVs, carrying forward its pioneering legacy in electric mobility.

25 Detroit Electric Questions

  • When was Detroit Electric founded?

  • What was the original name of Detroit Electric?

  • Why were Detroit Electric cars popular in the early 1900s?

  • Who were some famous owners of Detroit Electric vehicles?

  • How did Thomas Edison influence Detroit Electric?

  • Why did Clara Ford prefer a Detroit Electric car?

  • What made Detroit Electric cars different from gasoline cars at the time?

  • How reliable were early Detroit Electric vehicles?

  • What range could a Detroit Electric achieve on a charge?

  • How many cars did Detroit Electric produce at its peak?

  • Why did Detroit Electric decline in the 1930s?

  • How did the rise of gasoline cars affect Detroit Electric?

  • What role did affordability play in Detroit Electric’s market?

  • How important was Detroit to the company’s success?

  • Why were women often drawn to Detroit Electric cars?

  • How is Detroit Electric remembered in EV history?

  • When was the Detroit Electric brand revived?

  • What modern EVs did Detroit Electric attempt to launch?

  • How does the new Detroit Electric compare to Tesla?

  • What challenges did the revived Detroit Electric face?

  • Why do collectors value vintage Detroit Electric models?

  • How does Detroit Electric’s history connect to today’s EV boom?

  • What innovations did Detroit Electric bring to early EVs?

  • Why is Detroit Electric considered ahead of its time?

  • What does the future hold for the Detroit Electric brand?