The 1924 Auto Red Bug, a pioneering electric vehicle, remains a fascinating artifact from the early days of automotive innovation. Produced by the Automotive Electric Service Corporation of North Bergen, New Jersey, the Auto Red Bug exemplifies the ingenuity of early electric car design. This particular model, restored to its former glory, is currently available for purchase, highlighting its historical significance and rarity.
Originally introduced as the Smith Flyer in 1915 by the A.O. Smith Company in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the vehicle underwent several transformations. In 1919, engine manufacturer Briggs & Stratton acquired the design and rebranded it as the Briggs & Stratton Flyer. The fundamental design remained consistent, featuring solid axles, bicycle-type wheels, and a wooden chassis designed for flexibility, providing rudimentary suspension. The Auto Red Bug could seat two passengers and had a rear-mounted engine.
One of the unique features of early models was the “fifth wheel,” a powered additional wheel that could be lowered to move and lifted to stop. Later versions, including the 1924 Auto Red Bug, were equipped with batteries and an electric motor powering a rear wheel. This made the Red Bug one of the first true economy electric cars, emphasizing practicality and affordability in an era dominated by gasoline engines.
The Auto Red Bug was remarkably affordable, retailing for $125 USD in the early 1920s, which is approximately $2,292 USD in today’s money. In comparison, the cheapest Model T Ford in 1924 cost $290 USD, while the average annual income in the United States was $2,196 USD. Despite its low cost, the Red Bug’s electric propulsion system made it a noteworthy contender in the evolving automotive landscape.
This particular 1924 Auto Red Bug, now offered for sale on eBay through Classic Auto Mall in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, boasts a remarkable provenance. It is said to have originally belonged to Lou Costello, one half of the famous Abbott and Costello comedy duo. The car’s association with Costello may have contributed to its preservation, making it one of the few surviving examples.
The vehicle has undergone a comprehensive restoration, earning accolades such as the National AACA Senior First Prize in 2012 and recognition at prestigious events like the Concours d’Elegance of the Eastern United States and the Edison Concours d’Elegance. Its pristine condition and historical significance are reflected in the Buy It Now price of $17,501 USD.
For those interested in early automotive history or unique collector’s items, this restored 1924 Auto Red Bug represents a rare opportunity. The car not only embodies the innovative spirit of early electric vehicles but also offers a tangible connection to the past, underscored by its celebrity ownership and meticulous restoration.
Steven Symes