1921 Rauch-Lang C55 Double Control Coach

“People who own Rauch and Lang electric automobiles know that their ample cruising radius, more than legal speed, simplicity of operation and extreme economy make them the ideal cars for suburban use. Whatever your ideas today, you are certain to come to the conclusion, sooner or later, that an enclosed automobile, like the Rauch and Lang Electric, combines the desirable features and eliminates all the well known annoyances and much of the expense incident to gasoline cars". From various Rauch and Lang print ads.

For consignment, a 1921 Rauch-Lang C55 double control coach showing 7,786 miles, but the true miles are unknown. That's right, electric cars were produced over 100 years ago and this one can be controlled from the backseat or front jump seat. As often the possession of the elite, a chauffeur in the front seat would not be uncommon.

Exterior
Like just about everything else from this era, the upright car presents in solid black, including the 32-inch wooden spoke wheels carrying white wall tires that offer some contrast. Cowl lamps also wear a coat of black, fronting a cabin that is supplied with tall windows and a high roof, requiring a step onto the running boards for entry. Without water to cool, there is no front grille and the front resembles the turtle trunk of a Model T, matched in style by the actual rear trunk lid of this car which houses a series of batteries. A pair of headlights perch low in front and a stylish lip encircles the arching fenders, while a textured vinyl roof presents in very nice condition. There's some uneven paint on the cowl but overall, the body and paint are in great shape.

Interior
Victorian era influence is noted on the inside with hardware, red velvet-like doors and floral print dressing the walls and ceiling. That floral design is also used on the front bucket seats, while the red covers the rear bench and tillers are noted on the left side of both rows. Gray cloth, with some patina, covers the dashboard which houses a period clock while gauges are placed close to the floor in the center with a combination of rubber matting and red carpet covering the floor.

Drivetrain
Under each bonnet is a series of batteries while the actual electric motor is located under the car.

Undercarriage
Direct drive spins the worm drive axle, setting the car in motion with mechanical drum brakes on the rear wheels. Full elliptic springs serve as suspension both front and rear. Meanwhile, the wood floor construction is clearly seen underneath where conditions are noted as clean, with obvious wiring and the only fluids being the grease that lubricates the steering components and wheels. No muffler, no tailpipe, no exhaust.

Drive-Ability
We'll take the front seat thank you, and set out onto the test loop where simple operation is the name of the game, along with nearly silent operation. As a rather simple machine, and having been restored, it functions well and all operational items work. While Classic Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your purchase.

Interestingly, it was the increasing affordability and practicality of gas powered cars such as the Model T that would cause the demise of early electric vehicles. In addition, range and charge time were issues that technology could not address at the time. Here's a fantastic example of an early electric automobile that's sure to be a hit anywhere cars gather!

Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person. There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee is not included in the advertised price.

With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history. Tune in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you enjoy listening. You can also watch on YouTube!