A vintage 1917 Rauch & Lang JX-7 Brougham electric car, reminiscent of a horse-drawn carriage, fetched a staggering $179,200 at a recent RM Sotheby's auction in Miami. This price tag is comparable to that of four brand-new Tesla Model Y vehicles. The American company Rauch & Lang produced electric cars starting in 1905 and was a leading manufacturer in the early 20th century, producing 33,800 electric vehicles in 1912 alone.
What sets this car apart is its unique design, resembling a carriage with passengers facing each other inside. Instead of a steering wheel, it features a tiller. Powered by a modest 3-horsepower motor, it could reach speeds of up to 20 mph. While the original model had a range of 50 miles on a single charge, this particular vehicle received a modern battery during restoration, extending its range.
Interestingly, the same auction saw the sale of the most expensive Ford in history, fetching $13.2 million. A fur coat once owned by Empress Carlota of Mexico was also up for sale.