Volkswagen logo

Volkswagen is a car manufacturer that has a long and storied history. Founded in 1937, the company has become one of the world’s largest automakers and has a reputation for producing reliable and high-quality vehicles. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Volkswagen’s history and explore what makes the company so special.

Early History

Volkswagen was founded on May 28, 1937, by the German Labour Front under the leadership of Adolf Hitler. The company was originally called “Gesellschaft zur Vorbereitung des Deutschen Volkswagens mbH” or “Company for the Preparation of the German Volkswagen Ltd.” The goal of the company was to produce an affordable car that could be used by the masses.

The first Volkswagen model, the Type 1, was introduced in 1938. This car, which became known as the Beetle, was designed by Ferdinand Porsche and was an instant success. The Beetle was known for its distinctive design, durability, and affordability. Over the years, the Beetle became one of the world’s most popular cars, with more than 21 million units sold worldwide.

Post-War Era

After World War II, Volkswagen faced significant challenges. The company’s factory had been destroyed during the war, and Germany was facing economic turmoil. However, Volkswagen was able to bounce back, thanks in part to the help of the British Army, which took over the company and helped to get production back up and running.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Volkswagen began to expand its product line, introducing new models like the Karmann Ghia and the Type 2, also known as the Transporter or Microbus. These new models helped to cement Volkswagen’s reputation for producing high-quality, reliable cars that were also fun to drive.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Volkswagen continued to innovate, introducing new technologies like fuel injection and electronic ignition. The company also began to focus on safety, introducing features like anti-lock brakes and airbags.

Recent History

In recent years, Volkswagen has faced significant challenges. In 2015, the company was found to have installed software in some of its diesel vehicles that allowed them to pass emissions tests but emit more pollution in real-world driving conditions. This scandal, known as “Dieselgate,” resulted in significant fines and legal action against the company.

Despite these challenges, Volkswagen has continued to innovate and produce high-quality cars. The company has introduced new models like the Golf GTI and the Arteon, which have received widespread praise for their performance, design, and technology.