Early bay insurance

Introduced in 1967, the early bay-window Volkswagen Type 2 (T2a) camper vans took their name from the single-piece, double curvature windscreen that replaced the split-screen version previously used. This design, which brought more light and air to the cab, remained familiar for many years. The low-mounted indicators made the early bays easily recognisable from the front and earned these models the alternative nickname of ‘low-lights'.

However, the changes weren’t just cosmetic. More power came courtesy of a new 1600cc engine, with a revised rear suspension layout providing greater stability and better handling. Awning tents continued to be available as an optional extra, but these now came with a sewn-in groundsheet (the height of late ’60s luxury!) and no gap between the step of the camper and ground level. Production of the early bay versions came to an end in 1971. The Westfalia name was a constant throughout, but other conversions were available from Devon Conversions Ltd, Riviera/A.S.I. and also Holdsworth Motorhomes Company Ltd.