- Rare early electric automobile
- Complete ground-up restoration
- Operating on a complete set of 12-volt batteries
Rauch & Lang of Cleveland, Ohio, was a prestigious name in the
electric car field and, before that, in the carriage trade. The
company dated from 1884, when wagon builder Jacob Rauch and real
estate magnate Charles E. J. Lang formed a partnership to
manufacture high-end carriages. By the beginning of the 20th
century, Rauch & Lang carriages were among the most esteemed and
expensive available in their region. In 1903, the company opened a
Buffalo Electric dealership and in 1905 began to build and sell
electric vehicles under the Rauch & Lang name until 1920.
In 1909 the Rauch & Lang Electric was advertised as the handsomest
coupe on the market, touting it to be "as cozy and luxurious as any
woman would have it, and as able and efficient as any man would
demand it to be." Prospective customers were encouraged to be one
of those lucky enough to purchase one of the 1,200 cars made that
year in answer to pent-up demand. Upholstery was imported leather
or broadcloth in colors to match the exterior. The body was
finished expertly, and "the harmony of line and perfection of
finish" were meant to appeal to the discerning buyer.
Its mechanical and safety advantages were touted, as well: rugged
Exide (short for Excellent Oxide) batteries "of enormous capacity";
strong, durable electric brakes; and a Corbin key to lock the
control handle, meaning "no one [could] steal the car by using a
nail or wire." "Other cars may be cheaper at first," the company
admitted, "but Rauch & Lang owners spend practically nothing at all
for repairs."
This rare and elegant opera coupe was the subject of a
comprehensive restoration and is now powered by a complete set of
12-volt batteries, making it safer and more reliable than when it
was new�an ideal choice for any collection of early electric
cars.To view this car and others currently consigned to this
auction, please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/hf19.
