1915 Owen Magnetic Touring Car
Add to SetSummary
The Owen Magnetic had no mechanical connection between its engine and driveshaft. Power was sent from the gasoline engine to the wheels through a magnetic clutch and an electric motor. The result, in effect, was an automatic transmission with no clutch pedal to push and no gears to shift. But the complex system was expensive, and the company fell into receivership in 1920.
The Owen Magnetic had no mechanical connection between its engine and driveshaft. Power was sent from the gasoline engine to the wheels through a magnetic clutch and an electric motor. The result, in effect, was an automatic transmission with no clutch pedal to push and no gears to shift. But the complex system was expensive, and the company fell into receivership in 1920.
Artifact
Automobile
Date Made
1915
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
30.929.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Metal
Steel (Alloy)
Glass (Material)
Leather
Rubber (Material)
Color
Dark blue
Black (Color)
Gold (Color)
Dimensions
Diameter: 3.75 in (Bore)
Length: 5.5 in (Stroke)
Width: 69 in
Height: 73.25 in
Wheelbase: 136 in
Length: 194 in
Inscriptions
Plate on dash: OWEN-MAGNETIC / NEW YORK. N.Y. / MADE IN U.S.A. SERIAL NO. 222 Engine marked: OWEN MAGNETIC
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