What was Steinmetz's EV prediction?

Steinmetz in 1920 listed EV perks like cheap ops and reliability, cons like range limits—spot-on for today.

Who was Charles Proteus Steinmetz?

Power engineering godfather: cracked hysteresis, built GE's grid tech, drove an early EV.

Why did early EVs like Steinmetz's fail?

Cheap gas flooded markets; batteries pricey, infra nil. Tech was ready—us, not.

Steinmetz Nailed EVs in 1920—We're the Latecomers

Your daily commute could look wildly different if we'd heeded Steinmetz's 1920 EV prophecy. Instead, we're retrofitting a creaky grid for the cars he saw coming.

Supply Chain Beat Apr 11, 2026 3 min read

Restored 1914 Detroit Electric sedan owned by Charles Proteus Steinmetz, on display at Union College

⚡ Key Takeaways

Steinmetz predicted EV advantages and pitfalls in 1920—still relevant amid range anxiety. 𝕏
His hysteresis law enabled efficient grids, now strained by EV surge. 𝕏
Unique insight: Modern battery losses echo his magnetic fights; grid fixes needed or EVs stall again. 𝕏

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#Charles Steinmetz #EV history #electric vehicles #electric vehicles prediction #power grid #power grid pioneer

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Originally reported by IEEE Spectrum Transportation

⚡ Key Takeaways

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