Lampcars

Lampcars were a type of vehicle that emerged in the early 20th century, primarily in the United States, and were characterized by their use of portable lamps, such as kerosene or carbide, for illumination. These vehicles were typically inexpensive and simple in design, often assembled from readily available components. They were particularly popular in rural areas or for those who could not afford more sophisticated automobiles equipped with electric lighting systems. The primary function of the lamp was to provide visibility for nighttime travel, though their effectiveness was often limited by the brightness and range of the lamps used. Maintenance of the lamps, including refilling fuel and cleaning wicks or carbide chambers, was a regular necessity for owners. While lampcars offered a degree of mobility, their use declined significantly with the widespread adoption of reliable and affordable electric headlamps in automobiles by the 1920s and 1930s. They represent a transitional phase in automotive lighting technology, bridging the gap between horse-drawn vehicles and modern powered transportation.