The first commercially successful electronic cigarette was invented in 2003 by Chinese pharmacist Hon Lik.
Inventor and Motivation
Hon Lik, working for the Chinese company Golden Dragon Holdings (later renamed Ruyan Group), developed the device primarily as an alternative to traditional smoking. His father, a heavy smoker, had died from lung cancer, motivating Lik to create a less harmful nicotine delivery system.
Initial Patent and Launch
Hon Lik filed his patent application for the electronic cigarette in 2003. Ruyan began domestic sales in China in 2004 and initiated international exports around 2006. This first generation device resembled a traditional cigarette in size and appearance.
Key Historical Facts
- 2003: Invention and patent filing by Hon Lik.
- 2004: First commercial launch by Ruyan in the Chinese market.
- 2006: Introduction to international markets, including Europe.
- 2007: Ruyan expanded exports significantly to the United States.
- Technology: Early devices used piezoelectric ultrasound to vaporize a nicotine solution; later models switched to simpler heating elements.
- Impact: Hon Lik’s invention fundamentally created the modern e-cigarette industry, sparking global adoption and subsequent technological evolution.
