Champrobert (France) - AllCarIndex

De Champrobert & Compagnie was a French automobile manufacturer active from 1902 to 1905, based in Levallois-Perret, Seine. The company specialized in innovative vehicle designs, particularly notable for its use of petrol-electric drive systems.

The hallmark of De Champrobert's vehicles was their unique combination of a small engine and electric propulsion. The initial model featured an 8 horsepower single-cylinder De Dion-Bouton engine, which was front-mounted. This engine was directly connected to a dynamo that generated electricity, powering an electric motor located near the rear axle. This configuration allowed the vehicle to achieve five forward speeds and one reverse, showcasing an early example of hybrid technology.

From 1903 to 1905, the car was marketed under the name Electrogenia. During this period, the company also produced models equipped with larger engines, including a 12 horsepower De Dion-Bouton and a 16 horsepower Aster. Despite its brief existence, De Champrobert & Compagnie contributed to the evolution of automotive engineering through its pioneering use of electric drive systems.