Page "Steam car" Paragraph 27

Attempts were made to bring more advanced steam cars on the market, the most remarkable being the Doble Steam Car which shortened start-up time very noticeably by incorporating a highly efficient monotube steam generator to heat a much smaller quantity of water along with effective automation of burner and water feed control.

By 1923, Doble's steam cars could be started from cold with the turn of a key and driven off in 40 seconds or less.

When the boiler had achieved maximum working pressure, the burner would cut out until pressure had fallen to a minimum level, whereupon it would re-ignite ; by this means the car could achieve around 15 miles per gallon ( 18. 8 litres / 100 km ) of kerosene despite its weight in excess of.

Ultimately, despite their undoubted qualities, Doble cars failed due to poor company organisation and high initial cost.