Advertisement for Olds Motor Works, "District Chief Gaylord of the Boston Fire Department on Duty in His Oldsmobile," 1906

Carmakers sought customers beyond private owners. They saw lucrative potential in motorizing police departments, fire departments, and other municipal agencies. This 1906 advertisement from Oldsmobile promotes the car's use by the Boston Fire Department. There is an implied message too: If the Oldsmobile can handle rugged fire service, think how well it can serve your everyday needs.