Top things to know about the iconic VW Type II

Top things to know about the iconic VW Type II

The VW Type II or Volkswagen Type 2 has many names. It’s popularly known as the Microbus but you also hear it being referred to as the Volkswagen van, Kombi, Hippie van, and Minivan. It is arguable the most iconic van in history and one that many people love! If you are considering an old-timer then check on the VW type II at an auto auction Japan. Here are some interesting facts about this whimsical looking vehicle.

Originally Volkswagen (didn’t) design it Volkswagen did not design the VW Type 2. A person named Ben Pon who was an importer of Volkswagen vehicles did the initial design. It was during the post-war era and there was a need for an economic yet practical vehicle for commercial purposes. Inspired by the famous VW Beetle Ben Pon designed the VW Type 2 for commercial use. Pon created a simple sketch of a van with a rear engine that can carry 750kg weight.

It became a hit! During the first year, the VW Type 2 was introduced, it was a huge hit! In the first year, around 9500 vans were built. The majority of the vans were light blue. That is considered the most popular colour across the Volkswagen vehicle range.

VW promoted it as a station wagon Although we all call the VW type II a bus, there was a time when VW referred to it as a ‘station wagon’. This was an advertising tactic since the company felt that not many people would fancy owning a van so instead, they called it a station wagon. Although it may not look like a station wagon, it was used to transport people and it was promoted as a family-friendly vehicle. VW stressed how spacious the vehicle is and the weight it could carry!

Join the line of celebrity owners It’s no surprise that the VW type II has a list of celebrity followers. This spunky four-wheeler has won the hearts of celebrities around the world. If you plan on buying car in Japan then you will join the line of A-list owners. Some of the well-known celebrities that own/ drive the VW Type II includes Hugh Jackman, Jamie Oliver, Robbie Williams, Pete Townshend and Roger Daltry.

The first and the final

The first-ever Volkswagen Type II was introduced in the 50’s and it was the second line of vehicles produces by the company. The first line of vehicles was the VW Beetle Type 1. The final VW Type II produced many years later in 2013. The final production of the vehicle took place in Brazil after various safety guidelines were introduced, which were not in line with the vehicle’s design.

World record! In 2015, fifty people pressed into a Volkswagen Type II setting a world record. It took place in the UK at the Busfest, which is a Volkswagen Van Festival. This is something you can try with your friends if you ever get one!