Shocking Speed: How an Electric Dream Surpassed 100 MPH Over a Century Ago

In the twilight of the 19th century, the automobile world was a nascent and chaotic playground for engineers and dreamers. While names like Ford and Rockefeller dominate the annals of automotive history, there exists a lesser-known figure whose contribution was not only revolutionary but electrifying—Walter C. Baker.

Baker, an engineer whose brilliance and tenacity knew no bounds, was fascinated by the potential of electric vehicles (EVs). His work led to innovations such as the shaft drive system, the 'floating' ball bearing rear axles, and even early versions of car seat belts. But Baker's true passion lay in proving the superior capabilities of electric cars, particularly in terms of speed.

The turning point came with the design of the Baker Torpedo. This electric vehicle was unlike anything the world had seen, powered by a 14-horsepower Elwell-Parker electric motor and a series of lead-acid batteries. It was a true behemoth of its time. Baker's vehicle was built with one goal in mind: to shatter speed records.

His efforts bore fruit in spectacular and tragic fashion. The Baker Torpedo's maiden voyage turned disastrous when it crashed during a speed trial, causing fatalities among the spectators. Despite this setback, Baker refused to abandon his dream. His relentless pursuit of speed led to the creation of the Torpedo Kid—lighter, faster, and more futuristic. In 1904, this vehicle officially reached 104 miles per hour, unofficially eclipsing even that mark.

This story does more than chronicle the pursuit of speed; it highlights the untold potential of electric vehicles at the dawn of the automotive age. Baker's achievements remained unparalleled for decades, and yet, his name has faded into obscurity.

This oversight is poignant considering the current resurgence of interest in electric vehicles. Baker's early 20th-century endeavors offer a glimpse into the longstanding potential of electric power. As we look towards a future dominated by EVs, it's worth remembering the ambitious pioneers like Baker, who saw the promise of electric mobility long before it became a reality.

Today, as EVs begin to reclaim their rightful place on the roads, the story of Walter C. Baker is a powerful reminder of innovation's long and winding road. It challenges us to rethink our perceptions of automotive history and the origins of speed itself.

The legacy of the Baker Torpedo and its creator speaks volumes about the pioneering spirit that has always driven technological advancement. It's a narrative that deserves to be revisited, celebrated, and learned from as we navigate the highways of the future.