Welcome to our Volkswagen blog! I’m Lexie and I will be taking you through this innovative journey, learning more about Volkswagen, their vehicles, rich history, and all the technology that comes with it! Have any questions or want to check one of the latest and greatest vehicles just let me know! You can call me at (507) 344-6984 or email me at lexie@mankatomotors.com, or just stop in at Mankato Volkswagen located at 2021 Fern Lake Road!
Let’s get started! In this inaugural post, we’ll take a deep dive into the rich history and innovative spirit of Volkswagen, a brand synonymous with quality, reliability, and forward-thinking automotive engineering.
Volkswagen, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany, boasts a global presence with 114 factories spread across the world, currently known as The Volkswagen Group. Born over 80 years ago in 1932, Volkswagen’s name itself reflects its ethos: “the people’s car,” derived from the German words “Volk” (people) and “Wagen” (car).
Volkswagen Wolfsburg Plant
Fun Fact: Did you know that Volkswagen Group includes brands like: Skoda, Seat, Cupra, Audi, Lamborghini, Bentley (remember that TikTok video a while back), and Porsche? This includes the motorcycle brand, Ducati!
Originally founded in 1932 by the German Labor Front, Volkswagen’s journey began even before the outbreak of World War II in 1939. Spearheaded by the visionary Ferdinand Porsche, renowned automotive designer for luxury vehicles and race cars, Volkswagen’s first endeavor was the development of the “Volkauto,” later immortalized as the iconic Beetle. The idea behind the “Volksauto” was to create a small, affordable family vehicle, and that concept is still used today.
During the war, Volkswagen’s factories churned out vehicles like the KdF-Wagen, KdF-Stadt, and the Type 82, precursors to the Beetle we know today. Post-war, the British Army assumed control of the Volkswagen factory, even commissioning 20,000 cars for their military use.
Fun Fact: In a twist of fate, in 1948, Ford had the opportunity to acquire Volkswagen, a decision that could have altered automotive history significantly. However, Volkswagen persevered and, between 1949 and 1961, introduced timeless classics such as the Type 1 Beetle, Volkswagen Cabriolet, and the iconic Type 2 (T1 Bus).
One of Volkswagen’s most beloved creations is the iconic Westfalia Camper bus, later known as the VW Campmobile. This iconic beauty was originally introduced in the 1950s, capturing the hearts of adventurers and families alike with their unique blend of functionality and charm. The Westfalia VW Camper has left an indelible mark on automotive history.
Following some of their most iconic vehicles, subsequent decades saw Volkswagen’s expansion and innovation. Marked by the introduction of the first Passat, the Golfs, and evolution of the Station Wagons between 1960 and 2000. The turn of the millennium ushered in a new era for Volkswagen, with the introduction of the Jetta, Tiguan, Touareg, and an impressive lineup of SUVs like the Atlas.
In 2017, Volkswagen embarked on a new journey, prioritizing electric vehicles (EVs) and sustainable practices throughout their factories. The unveiling of the I.D. R (an all electric race car) and I.D.3 marked Volkswagen’s commitment to greener, more environmentally friendly transportation solutions.
In addition to its groundbreaking innovations in vehicle manufacturing, Volkswagen has also made significant strides in environmental sustainability, at its state-of-the-art Chattanooga plant, established in 2011. Located in Tennessee, USA, the Chattanooga facility stands as a beacon of eco-friendly manufacturing practices. Not only is it one of the world’s most advanced automotive plants, but it also operates with a focus on environmental conservation!
Fun Fact: The Chattanooga Plant is the home to a herd of 50 sheep who graze on the solar farm located on the property. Several donkeys also live with the sheep to help protect the sheep from predators.
Looking ahead, Volkswagen is poised to revolutionize the automotive landscape with upcoming releases like the I.D.7, I.D. Buzz (coming later this year), and I.D. Crozz, promising a future where innovation meets sustainability.
As Volkswagen continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: a dedication to pushing boundaries and shaping the future of mobility, and moving forward.
Join us as we delve deeper into the world of Volkswagen, exploring its latest innovations, timeless classics, and everything in between. Stay tuned for more exciting updates and insights!
Connect with us
Recent Blog Entries
- The Volkswagen ID. Buzz: A Retro Ride Into the Electric Future
- Volkswagen’s Green Revolution: Driving Towards a Sustainable Future
- The Quirky World of Günter Artz: Volkswagen’s Hidden Gem
- The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly, What is a CPO Vehicle?
- Hit the Road with Your Volkswagen: Midwest Adventures Await!