Elmore (United States)

Elmore Manufacturing Company was established in Clyde, Ohio, in 1900 by brothers James and Burton Becker, who initially focused on bicycle production before transitioning to automobile manufacturing. The company introduced its first two light cars, powered by single-cylinder engines with outputs of 3.5 horsepower and 6 horsepower, respectively. Both models featured a 62-inch wheelbase, chain drive, and tiller steering, and were notable for their two-stroke engines, which the Beckers promoted with the slogan "The Car That Has No Valves."

In 1902, the company incorporated, and production rapidly increased, reaching 400 units by 1907. By 1903, Elmore expanded its lineup to include 2-cylinder models with outputs of 6 and 10 horsepower, alongside the existing single-cylinder model. The following year, the company introduced 4-seater tonneau bodies, while the 2-cylinder models featured dummy bonnets, concealing the engine located under the seat.

A significant shift occurred in 1906 when Elmore announced a new range of shaft-driven cars, which included 24-horsepower 3-cylinder and 35-horsepower 4-cylinder engines, both offered with 5-seater tourer bodies. The pricing of these models reflected their advancements, with the 35-horsepower tourer priced at $2,500, nearly double that of the previous year's 2-cylinder canopy-top tonneau. The introduction of closed bodies in 1909, particularly the 24-horsepower landaulette, gained popularity as a taxicab.

In 1907, the Beckers sold the company to E.A. Goss, who already owned the E.R. Thomas Company, known for the Thomas Flyer. Goss subsequently sold Elmore to Billy Durant in 1909, who believed that the two-stroke engine would diversify the offerings of his newly formed General Motors Corporation. Production continued to grow until 1912, when Elmore exclusively utilized 4-cylinder engines, including a 46-horsepower model in 1910 and a 70-horsepower variant on a 127.5-inch wheelbase in 1911. However, the collapse of Durant's empire in 1912 led to the cessation of Elmore production, as General Motors closed all plants except those in Detroit.