Lost car companies of Detroit / Alan Naldrett.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 137-138) and index.

"Among more than two hundred auto companies that tried their luck in the Motor City, just three remain: Ford, General Motors and Chrysler. But many of those lost to history have colorful stories worth telling. For instance, J.J. Cole forgot to put brakes in his new auto, so on the first test run, he had to drive it in circles until it ran out of gas. Brothers John and Horace Dodge often trashed saloons during wild evenings but used their great personal wealth to pay for the damage the next day (if they could remember where they had been). David D. Buick went from being the founder of his own leading auto company to working the information desk at the Detroit Board of Trade. Author Alan Naldrett explores these and more tales of automakers who ultimately failed but shaped the industry and designs putting wheels on the road today"--Publisher website.

Olds Motor Works becomes the first car company -- The short reign of steam cars -- Electric cars short circuit -- The rise of Detroit's Milwaukee Junction -- Detroit area motorcar companies -- Small companies hit the majors for a quick cup of coffee -- Independent auto companies consolidate -- The "little four" become just two -- Aftermath: the global auto market.