| Running on Empty” showcases a 2006 Toyota Prius
Hybrid, a 1980 prototype called “The Brooklands”
developed by Michael Bogardus of Des Moines and a 1916
Milburn electric automobile owned by former Iowa Governor
George W. and Arletta Clark. The Toyota Prius and funding
for the exhibit are provided by Toyota Motorsales U.S.A.,
Inc.
Toyota Prius Hybrid
For years, automakers have been trying to perfect new
ways to power cars. Alternatives have now made it to
the showroom floor and eager consumers are standing
in line to buy them. The Toyota Prius is one of the
first hybrid cars – powered by a combination of
gas and electricity – to gain popularity. Its
60/51 City/Highway miles per gallon tops the EPA Ratings
of 2006 Model Gas/Electric Hybrid models.
Toyota began research into this gasoline-electric hybrid
in 1993 and started selling it in Japan in 1998. The
car made its American debut in 2000, and demand quickly
eclipsed supply. Consumers waited months for delivery
of their new hybrid, often making the purchase sight
unseen. Driven by consumer enthusiasm, supply is now
catching up with demand, and manufacturers are offering
more variety, including SUVs.
Michael Bogardus Prototype – “The
Brooklands”
The gasoline shortages and rising oil prices of the
1970s encouraged Bogardus to design and construct his
own fuel efficient vehicle. He unveiled his prototype
in 1980 as a two passenger, three-wheeled economy car.
Powered by a 500cc Honda engine, it claimed high gas
mileage and a thrill to drive. Small and fuel efficient,
Bogardus had hoped to market the vehicle to the fuel
conscious public. But the 1980s brought stability to
the oil market and less opportunity for the vehicle.
“The Brooklands” is from the Historical
Museum’s permanent collection.
Milburn Electric Automobile
The 1916 Milburn Electric Brougham (Model 22) is an
example of a successful electric car of the early 20th
century. It has rechargeable batteries and could reach
speeds of 15 miles per hour for up to 4 hours on a single
charge. Built in Toledo, Ohio, between 1915 and 1923,
the Milburn provided the city dweller with a viable
option to the gasoline engine.
Gov. Clark purchased the used vehicle in 1918 when
he left office and returned to Adel, Iowa. The Governor
did not enjoy driving and the Milburn rapidly became
Arletta’s pride and joy. She drove the car for
the next 23 years, until 1941, when it was presented
to the State Historical Society of Iowa.
“It’s the ideal car for a lady to drive,”
Arletta Clark said in 1941. “It is very easy to
drive and completely silent. I have had a great deal
of enjoyment, using it for shopping and making calls.”
The State Historical Society of Iowa is a trustee of
Iowa’s historical legacy and an advocate for understanding
Iowa’s past. It identifies, records, collects,
preserves, manages and provides access to Iowa’s
historical resources. Its dual mission of preservation
and education serves Iowans of all ages, conducts and
stimulates research, disseminates information, and encourages
and supports historical preservation and education efforts
of others throughout the state. Please visit www.iowahistory.org
or call 515-281-5111 for more information.
|
