First electric streetcar line opens in Germany

July 10, 1885 saw the debut of an experimental electric streetcar line in a German industrial city, using overhead catenary and early DC motors developed by Siemens. This innovation overcame the limitations of horse-drawn and steam trams by providing cleaner, more powerful service on steep grades. Engineers solved challenges with current collection and power distribution, paving the way for widespread adoption across Europe and North America. The event influenced subway and light-rail development for decades and remains a milestone celebrated by rail historians and modelers recreating Victorian-era traction systems.