The Carter Experience

Carter Motor Company was founded in Chicago in 1932 by pioneer radio and television inventor Alva J. Carter. Among Carter Motor’s early products were the first Dynamotor power supply units for mobile radio use in military, police and emergency applications.

In 1986 Carter Motor was purchased by the Schnoes family and the business moved to a new, 33,000 square foot facility located on five acres in Warren, Illinois on the scenic Stagecoach Trail.

In 2006, a new chapter began in Carter’s history. The 74-year old company was acquired by Keith Geisler who had been with Carter Motor Company for 10 years. His vast experience in the electric motor industry helped guide Carter Motor Company into a period of growth with a focus on expanding product and service offerings, improving on the already outstanding build quality, and focusing on a customer-first approach. These initiatives reinforced Carter Motor Company’s reputation in the motor industry and gained the attention of Orchid International in Monroe, WI.

While working together on a motor application in late 2019, the Orchid and Carter teams built a relationship that turned into an acquisition. In 2020, Orchid purchased Carter Motor Company. The fusion of the two companies allows Carter to manufacture motors and subassemblies with in-house raw materials, innovate and design new applications with the increased and enhanced engineering team, and ensure customers have a motor-buying experience that is second to none. 

In the summer of 2022 Orchid International was purchased by UPG Enterprises.  In early 2023, Orchid International officially changed their name to UPG Electrical.  

Carter is UPG Electrical’s flagship product line for electric motors where their focus remains on quality, on-time delivery, and the excellent customer service.  UPG Electrical is dedicated to working closely with customers to create Carter branded motor solutions to meet their needs today as well as tomorrow.