Horseless carriages to driverless vehicles: The evolution of motoring in WA

Watch our podcast interview on YouTube with award-winning motoring expert Graeme Cocks about the shift from the horse and cart to the motor car in Western Australia. Or listen to this episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

In the early 1900s, cars sparked curiosity, excitement, and plenty of scepticism.  

Today, electric and driverless vehicles are doing the same. Even though electric cars have been around a lot longer than you may think.

In this episode, we sit down with Graeme Cocks, an award-winning motoring historian, author, and former CEO of the Fremantle and York motor museums. 

We compare the public reaction when the very first cars, or “horseless carriages,” hit WA roads in the early 1900s, to the sentiment towards electric and driverless vehicles today. Plus, Graeme’s predictions for the future of motoring in WA.  
 
In This Episode: 

(0:00) Introduction: From Hooves to Highways 

(0:59) The Arrival of the First Car in Perth 

(3:53) Early Challenges and Innovations 

(10:07) The Rise of Car Ownership 

(13:18) The Evolution of Fuel and Service Stations 

(14:55) The Impact of World War II on Motoring 

(17:11) The First Road Services 

(19:41) Technological Advancements in Cars 

(22:59) The Future of Transportation in WA 

(33:44) Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

Whether you’re a car enthusiast or history buff, this episode offers an exploration of the past, present, and future of motoring in Western Australia.

Banner image: State Library of Western Australia Image 013858PD