1. The Formation Journey and Unique History

In the early 20th century, when industries were still in their infancy, Jacob Rauch and Charles Lang envisioned a promising future for electric cars. In 1903, they collaborated to establish the “Buffalo Electric” brand, quickly gaining attention for their bold and ambitious ideas.

By 1905, they expanded their business by designing electric vehicles inspired by traditional horse-drawn carriages, marking a new chapter in automotive history. Rauch & Lang was officially founded, pioneering the development of electric cars during a time when horse-drawn transportation still dominated.

In 1917, the Rauch & Lang JX7 Electric was introduced, embodying a vision for optimized urban transportation. This car was not merely a vehicle but a bold statement for a green, energy-efficient future.

2. Unique Design Highlights of the JX7 Electric

• Electric Motor and Drivetrain: Equipped with a DC electric motor powered by advanced batteries, it transmitted power through a worm drive to the rear wheels for smooth movement.
• Suspension System: Elliptical leaf springs at the rear and semi-elliptical leaf springs at the front provided a comfortable ride even on rough roads.
• Wooden Wheels: Crafted from wood and painted black, the wheels enhanced the car’s aesthetic and evoked the charm of horse-drawn carriages.
• Elegant Exterior and Interior: Coated in a sleek black finish, the car’s interior featured brown and white mesh fabric, exemplifying early 20th-century sophistication.

3. Distinctive Operational Features

• Special Driver’s Seat: Unlike traditional circular steering wheels, the JX7 Electric used a lever for navigation, with the driver’s seat positioned at the rear left bench.
• Classic Instrument Panel: Featuring a Warner Auto Meter, a voltage meter, and an odometer, it added a unique vintage charm.

• Headlight System: Equipped with four incandescent bulbs, the headlights provided both functionality and aesthetic allure.

4. Restoration Process and Revival Journey

More than a century after its creation, this legendary vehicle has been meticulously restored by skilled craftsmen:

• Preserving Original Beauty: Except for the modernized battery, 90% of the car’s components remain authentic.
• Interior and Cabin: Details like swivel seats and a sofa-style bench have been carefully refurbished to maintain the car’s original essence.
• Exterior: Elements like the wheels, rubber tires, and steering lever have been recreated to reflect the vehicle’s classic design.

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5. Auction Event and Historical Value

This iconic car is set to be auctioned at the Worldwide Auctioneers center later this month. With its rich history, the Rauch & Lang JX7 Electric stands as both a relic and a symbol of unwavering dedication to green technology.

6. Pioneering Role and Historical Lessons

• Pioneering Role: The Rauch & Lang JX7 Electric was one of the first vehicles to explore electric automotive technology, demonstrating the potential of electric motors over traditional systems.
• Contrasts with Modern Electric Cars: While today’s electric cars, like Tesla, boast hundreds of kilometers of range, the JX7 Electric was designed for short urban trips, highlighting both early challenges and progress.
• Reviving History: Restoring the JX7 Electric is more than preserving an artifact; it is a journey to relive a part of industrial history.
• Nostalgic Appeal: Handcrafted details, such as wooden wheels and lever-based steering, evoke a sense of nostalgia and elegance absent in modern designs.
• Significance of Preservation: This restoration underscores the importance of preserving industrial heritage for future generations to understand the foundations of today’s advancements.