The early years of the "Automotive Age," beginning about 1895, were marked by electric-powered motor vehicles being a significant factor in engineering innovation and in vehicle sales. However, faced with competition from continually improved gasoline-powered internal combustion engine vehicles and the limited availability of battery recharging stations, electric vehicle sales peaked in 1912 and then began a steady decline almost to the point of extinction by the mid-1920s.

The first Fritchle electric car was produced in 1905 and, by the end of 1907, another 20 or so had been delivered to customers in the Denver area. The Fritchle battery system permitted a driving range of 100 mi or more over relatively level terrain between overnight charges

Electric automobiles were usually advertised as town cars suitable for short runs over reasonably good roads

Fritchle, on the other hand, promoted the electric as suitable for speed and long distance touring.