When Were Vapes Invented? History of E Cigarettes OK Vape E cigarettes were invented in 2003 by a Chinese pharmacist named Hon Lik. The Absolute Best E Cigarettes (Top Brands Tested) The untold story of the first E Cigarette inventor Pouch Patrol An Interview with the Inventor of the Electronic Cigarette, Herbert A Gilbert E Cigarette Direct HON LIK: From inventor of the modern e cigarette to ambassador for the tobacco industry.