1915 Owen Magnetic Touring Car

Summary

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

Connect 3

Discover curious connections between artifacts.

Learn More