Electric cars have gone from a futuristic novelty to a viable alternative to internal combustion, and in some cases they’re outperforming their traditional competition. But did you know that the history of EVs is already more than a century old? Follow me on a time travel tour of the amazing history of electric vehicles.

1. The Birth of the Process: 19th Century Breakthroughs

Ideas surrounding the electric car first appeared during the 1800s. A simple small electrical (motor) car was designed and built in 1828 by Hungarian engineer Ányos Jedlik. By the late 1800s, inventors in the United States and Europe were building electric cars that had previously only been dreams. In fact, at the turn of the 20th century electric cars were outselling gasoline cars in America, as they were quieter, easier to drive and far more user-friendly — no gear shifting!

2. The Fall: Up of the Internal Combustion Engine

Actually the game began to change in the twenties with the discovery of huge oil fields and invention of the cheap Ford Model T. Gasoline cars grew cheaper, faster and more convenient. And so electric vehicles vanished from the consumer market for decades.

3. The Rebirth: Late 20th Century Attempts

Interest in EVs arose again in the 1970s and 1980s as a result of oil crises and increasing environmental awareness. But the technology wasn’t there yet — the batteries were too heavy, too costly, and provided too few miles of range. Automobiles such as the General Motors EV1 fostered excitement but failed to scale.

4. The Revolution: Breakthroughs of the Twenty-First Century

The real revolution began in the early 2000s when the electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla began making fast and sleek electric cars that could travel long distances on a single charge. This helped change public perception that EVs could also be fast, fun and luxurious. Nissan, BMW and Ford, among the major automakers, took up the cause as well, introducing their own electric models.

Meanwhile, advances had brought lithium-ion battery technology to the point where it was now possible for EVs to be cheaper and more effective. Incentives were offered by governments around the world and the increasing electricity-dispensing infrastructure also enabled electric vehicles to be feasible as they were now easier to recharge.

5. The Future: What’s Next?

“The future of EVs is really bright. Solid-state batteries, ultra-fast charging and solar-powered cars are on the way. What’s more, companies are developing electric trucks, buses and even planes. The worldwide drive toward clean energy and zero emissions ensures that EVs are no longer just here to stay — they are here to dominate.

Conclusion

The history of the electric car demonstrates the intimately related nature of technology, society, and the physical environment. From cautious origins to an auto industry juggernaut, EVs are changing the way we move and shaping our future. One thing is for sure: It’s just getting started with the electric vehicle story.