This 1905 Columbia XXXV Open Drive Brougham features formal open-drive Brougham coachwork that shows its horse-drawn carriage roots, through the lofty chauffeur's position and enclosed passenger compartment. It is an imposing machine with massive artillery wheels and solid rubber tires of 38 and 42 inches in diameter. Rather than a single motor driving a shaft or chain to the rear axle, the Mark XXXV features an unusual dual-motor layout with the two huge electric motors powering ring gears affixed to the inside of each rear wheel. It is believed that the opulent leather interior is original to the car.
This car was discovered tucked away in a New York City livery stable by the famed collector and historian Henry Austin Clark, Jr. The Columbia was displayed in his world-famous Long Island Automotive Museum for many years until it joined another prominent collection from 1982-2018.
Overview
- Make and Model: 1905 Columbia XXXV Open Drive Brougham
- Manufacturer: Columbia Automobile Company
- Type: Luxury Electric Vehicle (EV)
Specifications
- Powertrain: Electric motor powered by a battery pack
- Range: Limited by the technology of the time, typically around 40-50 miles per charge
- Top Speed: Approximately 15-20 mph, which was suitable for the period
- Chassis: Typically, these vehicles had a sturdy, steel frame construction
Design and Features
- Body Style: Open Drive Brougham, which featured an enclosed passenger compartment with open driver’s seat in the front
- Interior: Luxuriously appointed with fine materials such as leather and wood, catering to the affluent clientele of the time
- Controls: Early electric vehicles like the Columbia XXXV used simple control systems with a tiller or steering wheel for navigation and a limited number of controls for speed and braking
Historical Context
The early 1900s were a pioneering time for the automobile industry, with electric vehicles being quite popular, especially in urban areas. They were favored for their quiet operation and ease of use compared to gasoline-powered cars, which were often noisier and required more manual effort to operate.
Noteworthy Aspects
- Electric Powertrain: The Columbia XXXV exemplifies the early adoption of electric propulsion in the automotive industry, highlighting the initial competition between electric, steam, and gasoline vehicles.
- Luxury and Innovation: As a high-end model, the Open Drive Brougham was designed to provide a luxurious experience, combining comfort with the novelty of electric drive.
- Historical Significance: Columbia was one of the leading manufacturers of electric vehicles at the turn of the 20th century, and their cars were considered technologically advanced and luxurious.
Legacy
The Columbia XXXV Open Drive Brougham represents an important chapter in the history of electric vehicles. While internal combustion engines eventually became dominant, the early success of electric cars like the Columbia XXXV demonstrates that the quest for alternative propulsion methods has long been a part of automotive innovation.