Volkswagen has earned a reputation for being one of the most popular car manufacturers in the world. Originally founded in 1937 by the German Labour Front, VW has come a long way since then. The manufacturer has sold millions of cars across the globe. Popular models include the Beetle, Golf and Scirocco. As a celebration of the brand, here are six astonishing facts about VW.
Hitler came up with the idea for The Beetle
In 1934, Hitler ordered Ferdinand Porsche to design a vehicle called ‘The People’s Car.’ Hitler wanted a car that would carry two adults and three children. It was designed to be an inexpensive car that would have been cheaper than the £100 Fords being made in England at the time. In 1938, the vehicle was officially named the KdF Wagen. This car became the blueprint for the Beetle.
Volkswagen owns a football team
VW own a football team called VfL Wolfsburg. The team grew out of a multi-sports club for Volkswagen workers in Wolfsburg. The club have played in the top tier of the German football league system that’s known as Bundesliga. Wolfsburg won the Bundesliga during the 2008-9 season and the DFB-Pokal in 2015.
Modified Beetles were used as military vehicles during WW2
A military version of the Beetle was mass produced during WW2 for campaigns in France, Russia and North Africa. The Volkswagen Kubelwagen was designed to cover rugged terrain quickly.
Volkswagen owns many car brands
VW is known for owning a variety of brands including Audi, Ducati, Porsche, Skoda, Bugatti, Bentley and Lamborghini.
You can receive a birth certificate for your classic VW
If you own a classic Volkswagen then you’re able to purchase the birth certificate of the car for 65 euros. It’ll include the port of delivery, original paint and any other relevant information. This will give you more background knowledge on your car.
The most popular Beetle is one that drives itself
The most well known Beetle of all time is Herbie. Herbie has a mind of his own and appeared in six films, starting with The Love Bug in 1968. The success of Herbie further increased the popularity of the Beetle. The distinctive cream body with red, white and blue racing stripes has become an iconic image in pop culture.
