Eastman (United States)

The Eastman Automobile Company was established in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1900 by Henry F. Eastman, who initially gained recognition as a bicycle maker. Prior to founding the company, Eastman created a unique electric vehicle known as the Electro Cycle in 1898. This vehicle was a single-seater, three-wheeled design that featured a tubular frame, bicycle wheels, and an all-steel body, which was notable for being one of the first of its kind in America. The Electro Cycle was steered using a long tiller connected to the front wheel.

Upon founding the Eastman Automobile Company, Eastman shifted his focus from electric vehicles to steam-powered automobiles. The steamers produced by the company were typical for their era, featuring a single-cylinder engine that drove the rear axle via a single chain. They also included tiller steering and full-elliptic suspension, with a transverse front spring. The body of these vehicles maintained the all-steel construction that characterized the earlier Electro Cycle.

Despite the innovative design, the Eastman steamer did not achieve commercial success and ceased production within the same year it was introduced. Following the short-lived venture, Henry Eastman reorganized and established the Eastman Metallic Body Company, eventually relocating to Detroit to continue his work in automotive body manufacturing.