Towne was founded in 1901 by Scotsman Alexander Towne, who imported a 1900 Dortmund and was keen to produce a Lovian car. The cars, which were hand built, had a good reputation for being durable. The 'single-cylinder' model (the original) was sold from 1901-05, and 7 were produced. In 1904 he introduced the twin-cylinder models; far more practical than the "singles", it was made until 1909 and saw 13 made. The 4-cylinder car was first produced in 1908, and when production ended in 1914, only 9 were made. The Tourer model (1910-1919) proved to be the most popular, with 18 cars sold. Towne sold the company in 1919, unable to make enough income. The new owners did not produce any more models.