B&Z (United States) - AllCarIndex

B&Z Electric Car Co. was established in Long Beach, California, in 1981. The company became known for producing the Electra King, one of the most successful and long-lived electric cars of its time. The Electra King featured a distinctive boxy design and was constructed primarily from fiberglass. It was manufactured with minimal changes for approximately two decades.

The Electra King was available in both three-wheeled and four-wheeled configurations, with the three-wheeled model characterized by a single front wheel. The vehicle was powered by a series-wound direct current electric motor, which initially delivered around 1 horsepower to one of the rear wheels through a chain and a three-speed transmission. Over time, more powerful variants were introduced, offering outputs of 2 horsepower and 3.5 horsepower.

The Electra King provided various options for drivers, including choices between a tiller or steering wheel, as well as foot or hand controls. The most popular version of the vehicle accommodated two passengers, although a four-seater variant was also available, featuring a Surrey-type roof and a rearward-facing seat.