Drake [2] (United States)

The Drake Motor & Tire Manufacturing Company was established in 1921 in Knoxville, Tennessee, with the intention of producing a range of vehicles, including automobiles, trucks, tractors, and tires. The company was led by W.E. Drake, who envisioned equipping his vehicles with tires manufactured by his own company. However, the planned tire production facility never materialized due to financial constraints.

Despite the setback in tire manufacturing, the company successfully developed a line of automobiles characterized by their attractive designs and distinctive radiators. The vehicles were powered by a Herschell-Spillman Model 11000 six-cylinder engine. The Drake Six, a notable model, was offered as a five-seater touring car and could be equipped with either artillery wood or disc wheels. Promotional efforts were limited to factory literature, which featured the slogan "Built like the rock of Gibraltar."

The company produced a small number of vehicles, with estimates suggesting that between ten to fifteen Drake Six cars were completed before the company ceased operations, largely due to the economic recession of the time. Additionally, prototypes of a truck and a tractor were developed, but they did not progress beyond the prototype stage. One unique seven-seater touring car was created for a silent film actress, and her image was included in the company's promotional materials. Ironically, the Drake Six and the lone truck were fitted with Firestone tires, contrasting with the company's original intention to produce its own tires.