New Era
The New Era Engineering Co. built substantial, roomy, and good-looking American automobiles in 1916.
The New Era was built in Joliet, Illinois. In June of 1916, The Elgin Motor Car Corp. absorbed the New Era Motor Car Co., thus acquiring the New Era light four and its light delivery wagon.
The officers of the New Era company were F. J. Alvin, president and general manager; James P. Buckley, vice-president and factory manager; Winthrop Burdick, treasurer and sales manager; and W. J. Burdick, secretary and purchasing agent. The New Era was equipped with a water-cooled four-cylinder engine that developed 27 horsepower. The bore was 3 1/8 inches and the stroke was 4 1/2 inches. The ignition was supplied by Allis-Chalmers, including their starting and lighting system. A three-speed selective type transmission was used along with a silent chain drive to the semi-floating rear axle. Artillery-type 30-inch x 3 1/2-inch wheels were used.
In a 1918 American Automobile advertisement, the Wright Motor Car ad features the Inter-State automobile, and the Olympian Motors Company features its $1,085 Olympian four-cylinder touring car. Other advertisers include The Mohawk Rubber Co., Double Seal Ring Co. for their automobile piston rings, Cambria Spring Co., which made auto and truck springs, and Carboncide Mfg Co., which claimed to be the perfect carbon remover and a distributor of Excide Batteries.
Models Offered
- New Era Light Four:
- Engine: Water-cooled four-cylinder
- Horsepower: 27 hp
- Bore: 3 1/8 inches
- Stroke: 4 1/2 inches
- Transmission: Three-speed selective type
- Drive: Silent chain drive to semi-floating rear axle
- Wheels: Artillery-type, 30 inches x 3 1/2 inches
- Light Delivery Wagon:
- Similar specifications to the Light Four
Company History
The New Era Engineering Company was established in Joliet, Illinois, during a period of increasing competition in the automotive industry. The company aimed to produce vehicles that combined style with functionality.
In June of 1916, the company was absorbed by The Elgin Motor Car Corp., which allowed for expanded production capabilities and distribution networks for its vehicles.
Legacy
The New Era Engineering Co.'s automobiles were part of the early automotive landscape in America during the early 20th century. Although it had a brief existence, its contributions to automotive design and engineering are remembered as part of the rich history of American automotive manufacturing.
The absorption into The Elgin Motor Car Corp. marked a transition for the company but also highlighted the challenges faced by smaller manufacturers in an increasingly competitive market.
