What is the History of the Dodgems?
The Dodgems are one of the worlds most-beloved funfair rides. You don't just see the dodgems at fairgrounds, carnivals and festivals - some large indoor leisure facilities have Dodgems as permanent fixtures, and their enduring popularity means that there's always a group of people taking them for a spin.
But what is the history of the Dodgems? We Are Tricycle examines the facts.
Who invented the Dodgems?
The invention of the Dodgems is accredited to Massachusetts brothers Max and Harold Stoehrer in 1919, who also gave this bumper car ride its distinctive name through the company Dodgem Corp. Although the Dodgems were described as "highly unmanageable" by Scientific American, this didn't stop people queueing up to try them out for themselves; people were willing to look past any driving difficulties for the chance to crash into other people!
These early Dodgems would still look recognisable today, with long poles connecting to an electrified grid in the ceiling.
The potential for the Dodgems was obvious, and further improvements came from the Lusse Brothers in 1927. Their 'Auto Skooter' was significantly easier to control, with a front motor and ring-and-pinion axles to improve steering. This helped to bring the ride to a wider audience.
The Dodgems Arrive in the UK
The Lusse Brothers, as well as holiday park pioneer Billy Butlin, are credited with bringing the Dodgems to the UK. Companies including Orton and Spooner, Rytecraft, Robert Lakin and Lang Wheels presented them at funfairs and fairgrounds across the country until they became firm favourites.
Dodgem Corp ceased manufacturing dodgems 1970, but by this point there were many companies offering both traditional-style and modern dodgems throughout the globe. The Dodgems had established itself as a fixture at family-friendly occasions, and found its way to amusement arcades, cinemas, indoor leisure centres and many other locations.
We Are Tricycle has dodgems for hire throughout the UK. Speak with our team today if you require any further information! Check out our contact page to begin.