Creation Covenant Alliance

Eisenhower’s Unexpected Affinity for Electric Cars: A Presidential Insight

Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President, drove a 1914 Rauch & Lang electric car—a trendsetter for early EVs in America.

At least a couple of U.S. presidents have driven electric cars, but not all are recent examples.

President Dwight D. Eisenhower, our 34th President, may have been one of the earliest. Before becoming a renowned general, Eisenhower drove a 1914 Rauch & Lang electric car that belonged to his in-laws.

John Sheldon and Elvira Doud, Eisenhower’s father- and mother-in-law, owned the car, which was advertised as the first EV in America with a top-mounted worm drive. It could be driven from the front or back seat, and had a top speed of 13 mph, with a range of up to 100 miles.

Eisenhower met their daughter Mamie in 1915, and they married on July 1, 1916. Ike drove the car often until it was donated to his museum in 1953.

The Douds, a wealthy couple from Colorado, purchased the car for $4,300 in 1914, equivalent to over $135,000 today. This is far more than the cost of a 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 sedan.

1914 Rauch & Lang electric car and President Dwight Eisenhower1914 Rauch & Lang electric car and President Dwight Eisenhower

The Eisenhowers occasionally drove the car but later bought a used black Pullman roadster before moving to Washington, D.C. The automaker, which went out of business in 1917, barely outlived the electric car, which frequently broke down.

For the next few decades, the Eisenhowers drove gas-powered cars. Mamie often drove in D.C., navigating bustling lanes filled with streetcars and Model Ts. “When I would sometimes take Ike to the office in the morning,” she recalled in an oral history, “you’d run into what we called then a great traffic problem, which is nothing in comparison to today.”

The Eisenhowers owned several Chryslers, including a 1948 Chrysler Crown Imperial, a 1950 model, and a 1952 model. While Eisenhower was President (1953-1961), they used White House Motor Pool vehicles, mostly Chryslers, although Eisenhower also drove Cadillacs and was driven in a 1950 “Bubbletop” Lincoln in many parades.

During his presidency, Eisenhower’s grandchildren also drove an electric car—a miniature one they used in the White House hallways.

Upon retiring, the Eisenhowers purchased two Chryslers from the White House fleet, along with various farm vehicles for their farm near Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

1914 Rauch-Lang electric car1914 Rauch-Lang electric car

Eisenhower’s “Death Knell” for Short-Range EVs?

Eisenhower’s administrations preceded the modern electric car by decades, but his presidency had long-term effects on today’s EV market. In 1954, after proposing the interstate highway system in his State of the Union address, he advocated for a gas tax to fund highway construction. In 1956, Eisenhower signed the Federal-Aid Highway Act, initiating a $50 billion project to expand the U.S. highway network.

Eisenhower christened the modern Interstate highway system. While this expansive network facilitated long-distance travel, it may have hindered the development of infrastructure for short-range EVs. The rise of gas stations overshadowed the potential for electric vehicle infrastructure.

Eisenhower died in 1969, before his vice president, Richard Nixon, founded the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Mamie died in 1972. It wasn’t until the presidency of George W. Bush that electric vehicles gained significant national attention and funding.

Ike’s legacy toward efficient transportation remains complex. In his era, a President could be both pro-American and an EV driver. Photos courtesy of the Eisenhower Presidential Library.

Original Story at www.greencarreports.com

Trending News

COP29 Ends Amidst Criticism Over Loopholes and Disunity


The United Nations’ 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) concluded with widespread criticism over perceived loopholes and a lack of unity among participating nations. Environmental experts and activists expressed concerns that the agreements reached may be insufficient to address the escalating climate crisis.



Despite initial optimism, the conference, held in Bonn, Germany, was marked by intense debates and disagreements. Key issues included carbon emission reduction targets and financial commitments to developing countries. Many attendees felt these discussions fell short of meaningful progress. Learn more about the UN’s climate change efforts here.



A significant point of contention was the establishment of clear guidelines for monitoring and reporting emissions. Critics argue that the absence of stringent measures allows countries to exploit loopholes, undermining global efforts to curb climate change. The lack of consensus on this issue highlights the challenges in achieving cohesive international action.



Some developing nations voiced frustration over inadequate financial support from wealthier countries, which they argue is essential for implementing sustainable practices and mitigating climate impacts. This financial gap remains a major obstacle, fueling discontent and hampering collaborative efforts. Explore the Green Climate Fund’s role in supporting climate action.



Meanwhile, environmental groups emphasized the need for immediate and robust action, warning that delays could have catastrophic implications. They called for greater transparency and accountability in future agreements, urging nations to prioritize the planet’s health over economic interests.



As COP29 ends, the international community faces the challenge of bridging divides and enhancing cooperation to effectively combat climate change. Stakeholders are now looking ahead to future conferences, hoping for more decisive action and unity.

November 22, 2024

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024