Electric car, 1906

Click to enlarge to fullscreen for full appreciation.

The special feature of this carriage is the driving of the front wheels each by an independent motor. The carriages may be readily recognised in the London streets by the large diameter of the rear wheels... Owing to the front-wheel drive, the steel frame receives a somewhat awkward bend, which raises the driver's seat to a high level...

Special provision is made for charging the battery while descending a hill; the controller gives one electric brake and one reverse speed, also a neutral position—which is likewise the battery-charging position—and eight positions forward, position (1) being for starting; (2) for slow speed forward ; (3) for recuperation at 40 volts ; (4) and (5) normal speeds on the level; (6) recuperation at 80 volts; and (7) and (8) extra high speeds and for recuperation at normal speeds, giving a low charge to the battery...

Further information about the vehicle (and the occupants) in the discussion thread at Shorpy.